The Prince of Wales has spent a morning engaging with young black photographers and community activists, offering encouragement and sparking inspiration among the next generation of creative talents. His visit to a north London community centre highlighted the transformative power of artistic expression and the importance of supporting youth development initiatives across the country.
A Royal Encounter with Aspiring Photographers
During his Wednesday morning engagement, Prince William visited the Ubele Initiative in Wood Green, a vibrant community hub that serves as a focal point for various youth-oriented programmes. The prince dedicated his time to meeting black youngsters involved in charities and projects that receive funding from BBC Children in Need's We Move FWD programme, demonstrating his commitment to understanding grassroots community efforts.
Showcasing Artistic Talent
Among the young people he met were Jeremiah, aged 16, and Elijah, aged 14, both regular participants at the Society for the Advancement of Black Arts (SABA) based in north-west London. These teenagers have honed their photographic skills under the guidance of award-winning photographer Aneesa Dawoojee, whom they connected with through the SABA group. They proudly presented an exhibition of their photography to the prince, displayed within one of the greenhouses at the Ubele centre.
The group engaged in detailed discussions about photographic techniques, camera equipment, and the crucial role of belief and encouragement in nurturing artistic talent. Elijah reflected on the significance of the royal visit, stating: "It was a blessing truly. Getting his opinions on photography and art itself was really beautiful to see. When you see big people like that interested, you want to push yourself further and think about how you can break boundaries."
Jeremiah added his perspective on the value of artistic recognition: "That art has worth to it, it has value. The prince coming to see it is something that should be valued and thought of for years to come."
Addressing Systemic Barriers
Beyond the artistic showcase, Prince William participated in a substantive roundtable discussion focusing on career pathways for young black people. He actively inquired about the challenges and barriers they encounter when transitioning from education to employment, showing genuine interest in systemic issues affecting youth development.
Television presenter and former youth worker Big Zuu, who contributed to the discussion, commented on the significance of the prince's engagement: "The fact that we got Prince William here asking how we can make change shows that we are maybe being heard by the elite. Him being engaged and asking questions doesn't mean he's going to fix everything overnight, but at least we have got his ear."
Community Gardening and Radio Projects
The prince's visit extended to other community initiatives, including meeting young people from the Humber All Nations Alliance youth club based in Hull and the Humber region. These individuals participate in gardening activities with the community hub, and William discussed with them the joys of growing food and their hobbies beyond horticulture.
In a different greenhouse typically used by Black Rootz, a black-led food growing enterprise that supplies vegetables to Ottolenghi, the prince rolled up his sleeves. He declined gloves while potting a perennial plant alongside Big Zuu, humorously remarking: "This has to survive now. If it doesn't, blame Big Zuu." He also sampled a leaf from a saltbush, showing his willingness to engage hands-on with the community's agricultural projects.
Later, William conversed with youngsters from the Thurrock African Group and radio presenter Richie Brave about their community radio and podcast initiatives. He emphasised the importance of substantive dialogue, stating: "We have lost the art of debating. Everyone wants to fire off a quick text on social media. For me, talking about stuff is always the best way. If you don't talk about it, we bottle it up and it's always worse."
A Memorable Conclusion
Before departing, Prince William shared light-hearted moments with Ubele workers, including Christina Oredeko, who humorously mentioned her family lives in Windsor and would love to visit his home. The prince responded playfully: "Are you inviting your family to stay? Should we talk diaries and work out timings?"
He concluded his visit by presenting Ubele chief executive Yvonne Field with a kiwi plant for one of the greenhouses, symbolising growth and sustainability. The event concluded with group photographs, some captured by Jeremiah and Elijah themselves, marking a day where royal engagement directly intersected with community creativity and aspiration.
