Celebrating the borough’s Sheroes 

Published: Wednesday, October 25, 2023

A new exhibition of portraits celebrating some of the borough’s notable African-Caribbean women in the fields of business, community and sport opens this week.  

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The portrait of Anna and Victoria Agyekum

Celebrating Wandsworth’s Sheroes is on display during Black History Month, and as part of the council’s year-round Black History 365 celebrations.  

The Mayor of Wandsworth Juliana Annan held a reception at Wandsworth Town Hall to mark the exhibition ahead of its launch at Battersea Arts Centre.  

The term Shero was originally coined in 1836 during the suffrage movement and defines women known for their courage, achievements and qualities.  

Celebrating Wandsworth Sheroes recognises 16 inspiring women who have made a difference in their chosen field and in their community. They are photographed in their ‘Wandsworth happy place’ and have shared thoughts on their heritage, inspirations, their own personal Sheroes and where they find joy. You can read these in full at wandsworthenterprisehub.com.  

The exhibition launch at Wandsworth Town Hall

It will be shown alongside the Windrush Elders exhibition, commissioned by the council to commemorate Windrush 75. It includes striking portraits and stories of migration and forging a new life in the UK.  

Deputy Council Leader Kemi Akinola said: “This Black History Month has been truly inspirational. The focus this year has been on remarkable Black woman. As a Black woman myself I have been so proud to hear their stories and celebrate their lives.  

“This exhibition, and the Windrush Elders portraits displayed alongside, has some beautiful photographs of incredible people, and I would encourage everyone to take some time to visit them.”   

See the exhibition at Battersea Arts Centre until November 25, and then at Wandsworth Library from November 27.   

Find out more about Black History 365  

Notes to editors 

The Sheroes are: 

All the Sheroes