Editors Letter – September 2025

“August is like the Sunday of summer.” — Kelly Dwye

I’ve always loved the month of August. Yes, the weather is a big part of that, but there’s just something about August. People smile more, become more sociable and adventurous, families and friends gather, and communities come alive. So, as we hop into September, I find myself reflecting on a month rich with culture, celebration, and community spirit.

Of course, August brought us Notting Hill Carnival, a time-honoured celebration that stands as a beacon of resilience and creativity within the British Black community. Here at Black Wall St Media, we kept our finger on the pulse of this event by live-streaming it in partnership with Street Mic.

We also featured an important insight into Notting Hill Carnival from John Stevenson. He made a strong point in his moving article about an artistic exhibition that insists that Carnival is more than just a party.

‘The Carnivalesque: Body, Mind and Spirit exhibition’ invites us to look deeper. Curated by Onyekachi Wambu and supported by Ra Hendricks, this thought-provoking showcase explores the African spiritual, cultural, and political roots of carnival, from resistance on the plantation to modern-day urban struggles.

Featuring newly commissioned artworks, talks, screenings and more. John Stevenson delved into why this exhibition matters now more than ever. I couldn’t agree more.

This colourful spectacle is more than just a parade; it is a testament to our history, our struggles, and our triumphs. It’s a reminder of the importance of unity, of coming together to celebrate our heritage and honour the generations who fought for the rights and recognition we enjoy today.

Carnival serves as a reminder that, despite the challenges we face, we have the strength to stand together, uplift one another, and create spaces where we can thrive. We need opportunities to be reminded of that.

August has seen so much conflict across the world, reminding us that while we celebrate joy and community, there are still far too many struggles that persist.

From political unrest to humanitarian crises. I think that sometimes we put ourselves under too much pressure trying to change the world, when it all begins with taking care of ourselves first. I think of it as the wisdom of the airplane safety guide: we must put on our own oxygen mask before assisting others.

It’s so true! We can’t contribute to a better world if we neglect our own health and wellbeing. Investing in ourselves: mentally, physically, and emotionally, is essential for us to be fully present and capable of supporting our families, communities, and causes we care about.

I think we should all harness the momentum of August’s ‘vibe’ to propel us forward in our pursuits. So much emphasis is placed on the month of January as a time for new beginnings, but I always find that this time of year when children and students are stepping out into a new term, that we can also embrace the same energy.

September also symbolises new beginnings, and I encourage each of you to embrace this spirit of renewal. September is not just a transition from summer to autumn; it’s a fresh start filled with opportunities for self-growth and reflection. It’s a moment to set our intentions, to focus on our goals, and to nurture the dreams that fuel our passions.

Here’s to a September filled with hope, health inspiration, and togetherness. Let’s embrace this month with open hearts and determined minds, and I look forward to checking in with you all again next month.