Community first
We prioritise the needs and voices of the communities we serve, ensuring our programmes are community-led and responsive.
Our Story
Rooted in Southwark. Building with communities everywhere.
The Black Society began in 2021 when organisers, artists, health practitioners, and educators came together to ask how Black communities could lead the solutions they need. Today we operate across London, keeping community voice, creativity, and wellbeing at the centre of everything we do.
We have matched 200+ young people with mentors, convened more than 1,000 residents through assemblies, and partnered with 50+ organisations to co-design programmes that work.
What we do
- • Mentor young people through the Same As Me Foundation
- • Host assemblies that bring residents, services, and funders together
- • Co-design local action partnerships with councils and schools
- • Deliver creative health residencies that centre Black wellbeing
Our DNA
Values that guide every partnership
We believe transformation happens when relationships are rooted in care, imagination, and accountability.
Empowerment
We believe in equipping young people, families, and grassroots groups with the tools and confidence to lead change.
Collaboration
We work alongside residents, partners, and institutions to co-design solutions that last.
Innovation
We embrace creativity and experimentation to address complex social challenges.
Integrity
We build relationships rooted in care, accountability, and transparency.
Meet the collective
Our core team is made up of community organisers, programme designers, researchers, and creative health practitioners. We work alongside a growing network of associates and volunteers who help us deliver with care.
How we work:
- • Listening first and designing with not for communities
- • Investing in local talent and lived experience
- • Sharing learning openly so others can adapt what works
- • Staying accountable to the people at the heart of our work