London’s Boroughs of Culture announced

Londons’ Boroughs of Culture are heading south of the river, with Lewisham and Croydon being announced as winners of the title.

32 boroughs bid for over one million pounds to host cultural initiatives.

Croydon has been announced as the London Borough of Culture for 2023.

Tony Newman, Leader of Croydon Council, said: “From Stormzy to our very own Shaniqua Benjami, Croydon is the home of talent, with a rich musical heritage as the birthplace of punk, grime and more, with an exciting future ahead.

A “reuse and recycle” fashion show will be hosted by Croydon as well as more employment opportunities.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said: “Lewisham and Croydon have set out bold and exciting plans that will use culture to deliver real change in their boroughs.”

Lewisham has been named London’s Borough of Culture 2021. This is part of the Mayor of London’s initiative to support art in London.

Lewisham will receive the title and the prize next year. They will launch a year-long program of events to celebrate the boroughs many talents.

Lewisham’s bid advocates for cultural activism and explores the themes of climate change and diversity.

Projects include a careers event for year 7 pupils which will address the lack of diversity within creative industries.  The news has been welcomed by residents who say that the plans will bring new employment opportunities for young people.

The Mayor of Lewisham has said:

‘Our year will showcase what Lewisham has to offer the rest of London and the UK by harnessing the passion and creativity of our cultural sector and the people of Lewisham and channeling this into a program which will face up to the most significant challenge facing our planet, the climate emergency.’

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