Bournemouth Reggae Weekender is celebrating a double dose of good news.

Afro* Disiac Live Radio CIC has been awarded a £25,000 National Lottery Project Grant by Arts Council England to deliver the three-day event from Friday July 28 to Sunday July 30.

It has also secured Bournemouth-based GHS Clinical Limited as headline sponsor.

Stacey Yetton, GHS Clinical’s Managing Director, said: “I am committed to supporting diverse communities and uplifting the arts and culture as an integral part of my business journey. “Let’s bring smiles and positive energy to Bournemouth; a special place in my heart.”

Bournemouth Reggae Weekender celebrates the diverse African-Caribbean culture and heritage in Bournemouth through reggae music.

Held in Kings Park, there is also a full range of entertainment and traditional activities, supporting creative arts and performing artists through music, poetry, storytelling and dance workshops.

Organisers say the delivery of such an innovative project encourages and promotes civic pride, positive perceptions, goodwill, involvement and cohesion in the resort’s diverse community. It also highlights BCP as a place of tourism, business, commerce and creativity.

Commenting on the £25,000 grant, Sula Kasujja, pictured left, Co-Founder and Operations Director, Afro* Disiac Live Radio CIC, said: “We welcome this grant in our third year of delivering a multi-cultural event that provides perfect opportunities for neighbours, friends and family to come together to celebrate the diversity and buzz of our area.

“We believe that getting back to social activity in a safe environment is especially important as we adjust to life following the pandemic.

“We also want to thank Natasha Player & Co and Marie Pandolf, our mentors, who have continuously supported us on the Arts Council National Lottery grant application.”

GHS Clinical Limited is a professional staffing provider of health and social care to adult and children with disabilities and/or in need of 24/7 care support services.

The company says it is dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of the community by embracing diversity and promoting equality and inclusion for vulnerable individuals.

Barney Kavai, pictured left, Chief Executive Officer, said: “I have a strong personal and professional connection to the arts and culture sectors, both local and global.

“Music as a form of art has the power to evoke emotions and creates an atmosphere that brings people together.

“Let us celebrate diversity and rich cultural heritage in Bournemouth.”

Bournemouth Reggae Weekender will be announcing its 2023 headline acts and full line-up soon.

For more information, visit bournemouthreggaeweekender.co.uk