African Diaspora

**This is a the final chapter of our longform Tuesday-night reading group on China. If you didn't get to the first meetings, don't worry - come along anyway!** This time, we're finishing with chapter 4 , ***Ruination.*** Find the text here: [https://chuangcn.org/journal/one/sorghum-and-steel/4-ruination/](https://chuangcn.org/journal/one/sorghum-and-steel/4-ruination/) \-\-\-\- About the China Study Group: What can we learn from the Chinese Revolution? That's the question we'll seek to answer as LMRG brings the heat to you once again, now on Tuesday nights, with our all-new China Study Group. In this long-form reading series, we'll meet monthly for in-depth discussion of a series of texts on China, its revolution, the socialist market economy, and more. As the [New Cold War](https://thetricontinental.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/20221107_MR-NCW_EN_Web.pdf) heats up, it's never been more important to learn what we can about the country which the US, UK and EU have all described - following the [American phrasebook](https://www.gmfus.org/news/china-systemic-rival-systemic-threat) \- as a "systemic rival"\. For the first set of meetups within this series, we'll be tackling *Sorghum and Steel: The Socialist Developmental Regime and the Forging of China* by the [Chuang](https://chuangcn.org) collective. Chuang is an independent, autonomous collective of anti-authoritarian Chinese communists and labour activists whose work provides a rare opportunity for English readers to get vital detail on historical and contemporary dynamics within Chinese society from a materialist, communist, and crucially - balanced perspective. *Sorghum and Steel* will provide our Study Group with an essential foundation in Chinese history to equip us going forward. Throughout this series, we'll give equal space to a wide variety of sources, from anti-authoritarian Chinese communists opposed to the contemporary Politburo to members of Xi Jinping's own ideological brain-trust. We'll dig deep into elements of the Chinese revolutionary experience such as the CPC's localist co-operative economics of the Civil War period, the forgotten grass roots of the Cultural Revolution, the *Boulan Fazheng* period and China's rejection of "shock therapy" as seen in the USSR, and the theory underpinning China's recent turn away from the liberal economics of the 2000s. Take care everyone and happy reading!

**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/45233 **Game Description:** Come and play in a beginner friendly full court basketball game 🙌 This session also welcomes mixed ability players but please be positive and encouraging to all players regardless of their skill level. We all have to start somewhere 🧡 **Venue:** 🚪Entrance to the sports hall is on the corner of Celebration Avenue and Temple Mills Ln 🧼There are showers, changing rooms & a water fountain at the venue 🚶‍♂️5 minute walk from Stratford International DLR Station 🚗 Paid car parking is available on site **Rules** Explained at the start of the session but usually a running clock for the whole time and subs every 5-6 minutes on each team.

*Writers Mosaic* presents an evening of conversation, poetry, film and music with writers **Marjorie Lotfi**, **Sana Nassari** and **Shara Atashi** and Iranian musicians, as well as the extraordinary photography of **Hengameh Golestan**, which documents women protesting the oppression of the Iranian authorities. For generations and with great courage, women in Iran have protested against the restrictions imposed on them. The chants of ‘Women, Life, Freedom’ have never diminished. In the new publication *[Iranian Women’s Voices](https://writersmosaic.org.uk/limited-series/iranian-womens-voices/iranian-womens-voices/)*, creative women from Iran and the diaspora reflect on art, the constraints of present-day Iran and dreams for the future, inspired by the ‘The Rebel Poet of Iran’, filmmaker [Forough Farrokhzad](http://farrokhzadpoems.com/) (1934–1967). We’ll hang around after the event for a chit chat. Booking details: [https://events.bl.uk/events/iranian-womens-voices](https://events.bl.uk/events/iranian-womens-voices) Mibinamet! مونیکا Are you interested in reading fiction and non-fiction in French and Spanish, and English? -[www.meetup.com/gaia-books](https://www.meetup.com/gaia-books) [-www.meetup.com/gaia-libros](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-libros) [-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres) -Instagram: @persian_culture_ -Whatsapp group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZk35ZbJZ6W6wwyHyuxoS2)

**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/45309 **Game Description:** In partnership with In2Sports we bring to you a Monday night session 🏙️ Learn more about them here: https://in2sports.org This is a session for Mid-Intermediate & above players. ❗️Please be considerate & only sign up to this game if you’re a Mid-INTERMEDIATE skill level player or above. If we think you are a beginner/lower-inter player we will cancel and refund you from the game❗️ 💦 Water fountain, showers, bathrooms and changing rooms available **Directions:** 🚶‍♂️5 minute walk from Canary Wharf station **Rules** \- 2 teams of 6 \(1 rotating sub\) \- Games to 25 points \- Please be kind and respectful to all players 🧡

**BOOK HERE**: https://sportas.co.uk/games/45271 **Game Description:** In partnership with In2Sports, we bring to you a new Monday night session 🏙️ Learn more about them here: https://in2sports.org This is a lower intermediate session, if you’re beginner please attend the mixed/social sessions 🧡 💦 Water fountain, showers, bathrooms and changing rooms available **Directions:** 🚶‍♂️5 minute walk from Canary Wharf station **Rules** \- 2 teams of 6 \(1 rotating sub\) \- Games to 25 points \- Please be kind and respectful to all players 🧡

10 unforgettable days of rhythm, dance, and cultural immersion in Senegal For the 2nd consecutive year, Join us for an inspiring drumming and dance retreat by the sea, surrounded by Senegal’s warmth, rhythm, and culture. **When:** Sunday 22nd March – Tuesday 31st March 2026 **Where:** In a private villa, overlooking the sea, in Guerreo village, Somone (30 min from airport) ALL LEVELS WELCOME! **Programme** · Arrivals on Sunday 22nd March · 1h30 drumming class (am) ; 1h30 drumming and/or dance class (pm) weekdays · Free time –nearby beaches, fishermen villages, Somone mangrove, Popenguine pilgrimage village, street party with drumming and dance and plenty more! · Departure on Tuesday 31st March Weekend 28th/29th March (not included in prices, optional): Gorée Island & Dakar city **Prices** *(excl flight, airport transfer, alcoholic drinks, and w/e away)* £1,500 – Private bedroom (single occupancy) £1,200– Shared bedroom (per person) 30% deposit required. MESSAGE US FOR MORE INFORMATION / BOOKING!! T**his is what our last year’s students had to say:** *I loved our Drumming and Dance Classes and our Teachers, their energy, smiles, care and sweetness and their infinite patience in teaching. […] I can literally list every seconds. All in all*, I loved everything! Again a massive thanks, it was an experience that I will never forget and enrich my life with lots of love and good vibes (Agnese) *Passionate! Memorable! The Jahdiafolila ‘25 workshop unfolded in an idyllic settingthat inspired creativity and connection*. *Under the guidance of Master Dia and dance Master Leon and their remarkable musicians, we found ourselves in awarm and supportive learning atmosphere, inviting us to embrace new rhythms. This first experience in Africa filled me with humility and a deep desire to continue exploring and learning. Sincerely thank Master Dia for crafting suchan inspiring and unforgettable journey. I look forward to their next workshop! (Len)*

### ECSTATIC DANCE LONDON presents: ## 🌎CACAO DANCE TRIBE: **Afro House & World Beats Ecstatic Dance + Cacao Ceremony** **(DJ & live percussion set)** **Friday Night \| 7:45PM–10:15PM** **Fruit Social: 10:15PM–10:45PM** **Tufnell Park, London** Immerse yourself in an **ecstatic dance journey** infused with **Afro House rhythms, world beats, and live percussion**. Move freely, connect deeply, and let the music take you on a powerful journey of embodiment, release and ecstasy. We’ll open the evening with a dance movement warmup, then shift to a **heart-opening raw vegan cacao ceremony** and positive intention setting ritual, tuning in together before the main dance Wave begins. **Please note:** an RSVP here on meetup is not a ticket. To reserve your place please book via eventbrite. Thank you x **🎫Tickets:** [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ecstatic-dance-london-cacao-dance-tribe-wellness-rave-cacao-ceremony-tickets-498619222517](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ecstatic-dance-london-cacao-dance-tribe-wellness-rave-cacao-ceremony-tickets-498619222517) **🌟 Join the Mailing list for EVENT UPDATES & DISCOUNTS:** [https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/we-are-london](https://ecstaticdancelondon.myflodesk.com/we-are-london) **📣Join our WhatsApp Community:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IuJVuQiUmENDJGD7bhYRZr?mode=ems_copy_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IuJVuQiUmENDJGD7bhYRZr?mode=ems_copy_t) **✨Follow us on Instagram:** [https://www.instagram.com/ecstaticdance_london?igsh=MXFmdm01NzRtd2xndg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr](https://www.instagram.com/ecstaticdance_london?igsh=MXFmdm01NzRtd2xndg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr) **What to Expect?** ✨ Uplifting **Afro House**, **Brazilian grooves**, and **organic world rhythms** 🥁 **Live percussion** bringing fire and soul to the dancefloor 🍫 **Raw ceremonial cacao** to open your heart and elevate your energy 💃 Freestyle, expressive movement & moving meditation 🍉 **Optional fruit social** afterwards to nourish and connect No alcohol, no drugs, just rhythm, breath, and community. This is one of London’s most loved **sober Friday night dance experiences**, where you can shake off the week’s stress and celebrate life through movement. ### About Cacao Dance Tribe Founded in 2017, **Cacao Dance Tribe** was one of the world’s first **Cacao Ceremony + Ecstatic Dance** events, originally held in Camden. After a pause during the pandemic, we’re thrilled to have **revived the tribe in Tufnell Park since 2023,** co-created by the **Ecstatic Dance London** community, pioneers of the UK’s sober dance movement since 2009. No dance experience needed — everyone is welcome. We also offer limited **free crew spaces** — scroll below for details and sign-up. **Music Vibe:** Afro House \| World Beats \| Brazilian \| Organic Rhythms

Welcome to the Soho Living Room Bookclub! If you enjoy reading, sharing and discussing good books over a good cup of coffee (and maybe a crafty scone!), this is the group for you! Join the conversation every Friday from 10.00-11.30! Looking forward to seeing you there. For more information, call Richard on 07563 995 821

Africa is entering a defining economic decade. Rapid urbanization, infrastructure expansion, agricultural modernization, and digital transformation are reshaping markets across the continent. Yet many professionals and members of the diaspora in the United States lack structured, grounded insight into how development actually works — beyond headlines and social media narratives. The **Africa Development & Capital Forum** invites you to our inaugural in-person gathering in Washington, DC. This session will explore: • Key macro trends shaping African markets • Infrastructure and real asset development opportunities • The evolving role of diaspora participation • Risks, realities, and responsible engagement • What disciplined, long-term development looks like This event is educational in nature and designed to foster meaningful dialogue and relationship-building among professionals interested in Africa’s long-term economic trajectory.

**In a time of division and isolation, come be part of the community that's rebuilding the town square, one table at a time.** In BreadBreakers, we use the common space of the dining table to have conversations where neighbors can **hear, be heard, and know one another.** If you're hungry for good conversation and deeper community, join us for a Community Dinner in Reston and help blaze the trail to a healthier, more connected society and democracy. Here’s how it works: For just two hours, multiple tables of people set aside the need to "win" and instead focus on sharing, listening, and connecting. Guided by experienced table hosts, we'll tell our stories, try to understand each other, and practice being in community with those with different views or backgrounds. **At this dinner, participants will get to choose between three different topics, including some current events.** Topics range from the political, to the "slice of life", to the spiritual, to the philosophical, to the off-the-wall - but no matter which table you choose to sit at, you can be sure it'll be like no dinner conversation you've had before! You can also **suggest a topic** by emailing us at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com. Food will be provided for free. For those who wish to provide a donation to help fund BreadBreakers, you can [give here](https://pushpay.com/g/restorationrestonumc?fnd=pO6G-N7oO7FH7Mp1u-x6mA&fndv=Lock&r=No&lang=en&src=pcgl) or at the event. We'll have vegetarian and gluten-free options available. If you have any additional dietary restrictions (Celiac Disease, vegan, etc.) please let us know at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com so that we can implement the appropriate food handling procedures. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of talking with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by [Restoration United Methodist Church](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers) in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community. All faiths and all stripes are welcomed. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't.

Hello everyone! Climbers of all skill levels are welcome to Join “Sends with Friends” climbing! We organize two climbing sessions on the Fridays of the month. We can grab some food and drink after the climbing session if people are interested. - 1st or 2nd week: bouldering session - 3rd or 4th week: rope session For non-Sportrock members, a daily pass is required. For those joining the meetup, the day pass will be discounted at $15 and will include rental gear. Please read the rest of the description below carefully before you start climbing at SR Rio. Here’s what you need: 
1. **Signed waiver**: [https://www.sportrock.com/participant-agreement](https://www.sportrock.com/participant-agreement)
2. **Belay Check**, which can be done the same day. See more information: [https://www.sportrock.com/top-rope-and-lead-tests](https://www.sportrock.com/top-rope-and-lead-tests) If you are completely new to climbing and interested in top rope climbing, consider taking the ‘Intro to Climbing” class first. It costs $36 Members and $45 Non-Members. Where to meet: We’ll gether at the table nearby the main entrance.

Social Sips & Bites family - it’s time to wear your green and bring your Irish spirit. We’re heading to Kalypso’s Tavern for a St. Patrick’s celebration packed with festive vibes, great company, and special deals on food and drinks. What to expect: • Irish favorites like corned beef & cabbage • Shepherd’s pie and other hearty classics • Guinness specials • A lively crowd and that classic SSB energy Whether you’re coming for the food, the drinks, or just the fun, this is one of those nights you don’t want to miss. Come hungry. Come social. Let’s turn Kalypso’s green together. 🍀

Spring is for fresh starts — and fresh connections. We’re bringing back the energy of a classic **Tea Dance** — bright, social, joyful, and home in time for dinner (or out for the night if that’s your style). Throw your hands in the air. Laugh with friends. Meet someone new. Feel the room buzz. \*\* Get your ticket here:\*\* **[Click Here](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/dts-spring-shamrock-tea-dance)** **DTs isn’t just where we gather — it’s where real connections happen. Just ask Dan and Dave, who first met at a DTs event and are still telling the story.** *** ## Only 60 Tickets Available We’re capping this event at **60 attendees** to keep the energy high and the space comfortable. **Tickets are now open for everyone** for our Spring Shamrock Tea Dance & Social — and we’re capping the event at **60 attendees**. ### Pricing **Members:** • $5 in advance • $10 at the door **Guests / Non-Members:** • $15 in advance • $20 at the door *A small member ticket helps encourage committed attendance and keep larger events sustainable.* Early Bird pricing runs through **Thursday, March 19**. When we hit 60, we’re full. *** ## Early Bird Perks The first **30** ticket purchasers will receive a little Shamrock surprise at check-in. The first **20** ticket holders get their song request added to the playlist (subject to Board review — keep it danceable ). *** ## Shamrock Mixer At check-in, you may choose one — or more — shamrock stickers to spark conversation: Looking to meet new people Long-time DTs member (OG!) Newer to DTs Here with friends but open to mingling Low pressure. High connection. *** ## Costume Fun • Best Hat • Greenest Outfit • Luck-Themed Look No costume? No problem. Competitive chair dancing encouraged. Sing along if you like. *** ## A Safe, Welcoming Space DTs is committed to creating a safe, affirming space for women, men, trans, and non-binary members of our community. Come solo. Come with friends. Come ready to connect. *** ## Details BYOB Light refreshments provided Feel free to bring something to share (not required) *** Let’s make this room hum. \*\* Tickets:\*\* **[Click Here](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/dts-spring-shamrock-tea-dance)** Need a membership? [Click here. ](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/75818030-309b-4391-bcfb-8ebc60e1c6d6)