The Africa Centre Launches Groundbreaking Artist Development Hub 

We're thrilled to announce the launch of the Chakula Artist Development Hub, an innovative artist residency program for Black, African and Caribbean LGBTQ+ artists. This groundbreaking initiative aims to support the development and activation of new artistic work at The Africa Centre.

This initiative was brought forward by Multidisciplinary Artist and Curator Alizee Ndiaye. After two years of dedicated writing and conceptualization, she presented her vision and project Griot Circle of Soul to The Africa Centre, all the while advocating for more sustainable approaches to supporting her creative development. Historically, The Africa Centre is a hub for contemporary African culture and heritage in London, having hosted the work of artists and playwrights, such as The Trial of Dedan Kimathi by Ngugi wa Thiong'o in 1984 (Rest in peace 1938-2025).

The Chakula Artist Development Hub is an attempt to follow in this lineage - to foster innovation, trust artists to create without compromise, and support diverse voices that challenge and expand our understanding of society, identity, tradition, and culture. The Chakula Programme is dedicated to empowering creators, especially Black, African and Caribbean artists, with the confidence and resources needed to bring transformative cultural work to life. This project will provide the artist with a workshop-ready piece, positioned to access more opportunities and create broader cultural impact. 

Griot Circle of Soul by Alizee Ndiaye explores West African storytelling traditions while examining the evolving role of the Griot in post-colonial society. 

The play celebrates non-binary identity and gender fluidity within traditional African social structures. Through this powerful work, audiences are invited to find hope and gain perspective on human balance, collective meaning, and our shared frequency as both individuals and community.

During this residency, the artist will research and develop the complete script, create movement direction, and compose original music, working alongside amazing facilitators who will collaborate and host workshops to share their expertise in each of these domains. The residency will end with a public reading of the play alongside curated works from other emerging writers at The Africa Centre.

For more information about the Artist Development Hub and upcoming events, visit our website contact The Chakula Programme by email [email protected]