Community Celebration 2026 and HPV Awareness Event
Community Celebration 2026 and HPV Awareness Event
Organised by: Eastern Sudan Community Association (ESCA)
Funded by: BME & Community Fund
Community Development Department – London
Event Date: 29 May 2026
Venue: White City Centre, London
Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Executive Summary
The Eastern Sudan Community Association (ESCA) successfully organised the Community Celebration 2026 and HPV Awareness Event, funded by the BME & Community Fund. The event brought together families, community members, volunteers, and residents in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment.
The event aimed to strengthen community cohesion, improve wellbeing, reduce social isolation, and increase awareness of key health issues, including HPV prevention, vaccination, screening, and early detection.
A total of 159 participants attended, reflecting strong community engagement
and highlighting the importance of well-funded, community-led initiatives.
Project Objectives
Promote community cohesion and social inclusion
Increase awareness of HPV and preventive health services
Encourage access to health information and services
Reduce social isolation and strengthen participation
Improve wellbeing and mental health
Provide safe, culturally appropriate, family-friendly activities
Encourage volunteering and community engagement
Participation
Men: 17 Women: 66 Young People: 23 Children: 53
Total: 159
Participant Breakdown
Women: 41%
Men: 10%
Young People: 14%
Children: 35%
Activities Delivered
Cultural Performances and Community Entertainment
Cultural and musical performances were delivered, reflecting the diversity of the community and contributing to positive social interaction among participants.
HPV Health Awareness Session
A specialised educational session was delivered focusing on HPV prevention, vaccination, screening, and early detection.
Vaccination
The HPV vaccine provides protection against the most common and high-risk strains of the virus.
The vaccine is routinely offered to children aged 12–13, and is also available free of charge through the National Health Service (NHS) programme for eligible individuals up to the age of 25.
The vaccine plays a key role in preventing HPV infection and significantly reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer later in life.
Early Detection
Early detection through regular screening helps identify abnormal cell changes at an early stage, allowing treatment before they develop into cancer.
Screening
Routine cervical screening tests detect high-risk HPV and abnormal cell changes, helping to monitor conditions and remove precancerous cells before progression.
Key Point
The vaccine helps prevent infection, while screening detects early cellular changes.
Together, they provide the strongest protection against cervical cancer.
Speaker: Dr. Tagwa Hamed
Community Story Sharing Sessions
Participants engaged in informal discussions, sharing experiences and strengthening community relationships.
Children’s Activities
Games, interactive activities, and face painting were provided in a safe and engaging environment.
Community Networking
Opportunities were provided for participants to build social connections and
strengthen informal support networks.
Hospitality and Refreshments
Tea, coffee, and refreshments were provided throughout the event, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Economic Empowerment and Community Leadership
As part of ESCA’s work and with support from the BME & Community Fund, the event included recognition of volunteers, community leaders, and entrepreneurs.
Recognised Entrepreneurs
Mr Badr Al-Din Hamdoun – Al Sultan Al Sudani Restaurant
Mr Al-Amin Sukkar – Shallot Café
Ms Khadija Abdulrahman – Doga Coffee
Overall Project Impact
Community Cohesion
Strengthening relationships across different community groups.
Increasing trust and participation.
Improving social connections.
Health Awareness and Wellbeing
Raising awareness of HPV.
Improving understanding of screening and early detection.
Encouraging better health decisions.
Reducing Social Isolation
Building new friendships.
Reducing feelings of loneliness.
Strengthening support networks.
Impact on Women and Families
Improving access to health information.
Increasing confidence in discussing health issues.
Strengthening family and community support.
Impact on Children and Young People
Providing safe and engaging activities.
Encouraging participation and creativity.
Supporting positive community experiences.
Additional Programme Highlights
Family Cohesion Programme Graduation
Participants who successfully completed the programme were recognised
Volunteer and Community Leader Recognition
The culture of volunteering, leadership, and civic participation was strengthened
Participant Feedback
Participants reported that they:
Felt welcomed and included
Enjoyed cultural and family activities
Found the HPV awareness session informative and valuable
Built new friendships and connections
Appreciated the safe and supportive environment
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
ESCA ensured the event was inclusive and accessible to all participants
regardless of age, gender, or cultural background, while promoting the
values of equality, diversity, and inclusion
Acknowledgements
ESCA extends sincere thanks to the BME & Community Fund for supporting
this initiative, as well as all partners, volunteers, speakers, and participants
who contributed to the success of the event
Conclusion
The Community Celebration 2026 and HPV Awareness Event successfully strengthened community cohesion, raised health awareness, reduced social isolation, and improved overall wellbeing
The strong turnout and positive feedback highlight the importance of continued investment in community-led initiatives that combine cultural celebration, health education, and community support
Community
Empowering East Sudanese through education and inclusion
Values
Mission
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