UBUNTU |Our Languages  with English for Action

Ubuntu – I am because we are is a multi-stranded exhibition and workshop programme conceived by Jason Forrest, Sharon Bertram, and Ian Thompson.

The philosophy of ubuntu, originating from the Bantu and Xhosa traditions of southern Africa, and later popularised by Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela, embodies the idea that our humanity is deeply interconnected. The phrase ‘I am because we are’ expresses values of community, collectivism, and shared responsibility, fostering an awareness of how our lives are shaped by those around us.

Join is for Our Languages: Exploring language biographies and challenges with English for Action, an organisation that provides accessible, participatory and empowering English language classes for migrants in London. English for Action campaigners Kasia Blackman & Adela Belecova lead a session uncovering the rich linguistic diversity of the Southwark community, reflecting on the challenges faced by migrants in London, including linguicism and access to English language support.

Free and open to all, children welcome.

BIOGRAPHIES

Adela Belecova, English for Action

Adela has a degree in Linguistics and English language teaching. She is passionate about how the ESOL classroom can serve as a context to examine the world critically, the dialogical aspect of participatory education, and how this enables students to build their skills and get involved in action to bring about positive change. She has led on a number of community organising projects as well as the #LoveESOL campaign. Her approach to community organising, campaigning, as well as management, is rooted in ‘starting where the people are.’ This is especially important to her, as she is a migrant to the UK and a non-native speaker of English.

Kasia Blackman, English for Action

Kasia is a teacher, community organiser, trainer and Theatre of the Oppressed practitioner. She has an MA in Critical Methodologies from King’s College London and a keen interest in critical, participatory and creative approaches in education. She has experience facilitating Theatre of the Oppressed training and workshops alongside community organising and campaigning with her students and colleagues on ESOL, access to healthcare and employment issues. She grew up bilingual speaking Polish and English at home.

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