Brixton Culture Capital | 08.02.2025
The BCC List: Grassroots Glory – Brixton’s Community Spirit Shines
Hello, Brixtonians!
February is here, and Brixton is buzzing with fresh updates — from council news and community buzz to weekend fun, indie cinema, and inspiring grassroots stories. Let’s dive into the latest from SW9, keeping you in the loop on all things Brixton.
Brixton’s beating heart is us, the people — our passion turns bold ideas into community action. This special edition celebrates Brixton’s community-driven spirit by spotlighting the grassroots heroes who make our neighbourhood thrive. From volunteers transforming vacant lots into community gardens to mentors guiding youth at the local boxing gym, these stories remind us that Brixton's true culture capital is its people. One such story: a Brixton boxing coach who launched a podcast to amplify local voices and tackle knife crime.
Upcoming Events in Brixton
Tones – A Hip-Hop Opera (Feb 4–15 at Brixton House)
It is an award-winning production that fuses the gritty sounds of hip-hop, grime, and drill with the melodrama of opera. Tones follows one man’s journey through Black British culture and identity, delivering a riveting story of self-discovery through rap and theatre. Catch this critically acclaimed show while it’s back in Brixton for a limited run!
Black Culture Market (Mar 1–2 at The Department Store, 248 Ferndale Road)
A two-day community market celebrating African and Caribbean culture & commerce. Black Culture Market showcases a diverse range of Black-owned businesses — from art and fashion to food and wellness — all under one roof. It’s the perfect place to find unique gifts, support emerging entrepreneurs, and soak up Brixton’s vibrant cultural scene. Entry is free (just register), so bring a friend and experience this celebration of local talent and heritage
Community Spotlight: Grassroots Heroes
Bobby Mills – Boxing Coach Turned Podcaster:
As head coach at Brixton’s Afewee boxing gym, Bobby has long mentored local youth. Now, he’s the first guest on a new community-led podcast called PieceMAKERS, aimed at amplifying grassroots organisations and their incredible work brixtonblog.com. In the very first episode, Bobby shares how sports can transform lives and discusses a campaign to tackle knife crime launched in Brixton. His story exemplifies how one person’s passion can spark inspiration across our community.
Solomon Smith – Founder of Brixton Soup Kitchen: At age 12, Solomon began handing out food to homeless neighbours on his way home from school. In 2013, he co-founded the Brixton Soup Kitchen to provide free meals, support, and companionship to those in need love.lambeth.gov.uk. What started as a small act of kindness has become a vital community hub that has helped thousands of Brixtonians recover. Solomon’s mission ensures no one in Brixton goes hungry or feels alone – a powerful reminder of our neighbourhood’s care-for-all ethos.
Official Announcements
Lambeth Civic Awards 2025 – Nominate Your Local Heroes
Lambeth Council has launched its Civic Awards 2025, inviting residents to nominate individuals who make a difference in the community. Nominations opened in mid-December and just closed at the end of January. An awards ceremony is already slated for April at Brixton’s Assembly Hall to honour the winners. It’s a celebration of Brixton’s community spirit and the diverse activism and service locals provide.
Bringing Pride Home to Lambeth
In honour of LGBTQ+ History Month this February, Lambeth Council is gearing up for a big “Pride in Lambeth” in 2025. The council has been meeting with community leaders and activists to plan an LGBTQ+ Pride celebration in the borough. The goal is to bring Pride ‘home’ to Brixton — reflecting our area’s historic role in queer activism and ensuring the celebrations resonate with local communities. Stay tuned for more on upcoming Pride events as plans take shape.
Smiley Culture Blue Plaque Unveiling
A piece of Brixton’s cultural heritage will be officially recognized this month. David “Smiley Culture” Emmanuel, the pioneering reggae artist famous for “Cockney Translation,” is getting a blue plaque at his former home on Lansdowne Green Estate. The Nubian Jak Community Trust, with support from Sony Music and Smiley’s family, will unveil it on Feb 10 — which would have been the artist’s 62nd birthday. This official tribute highlights Smiley’s ground-breaking contributions to British reggae and pop culture and cements his legacy in the neighborhood.
Community Discussions
Beloved Bar Bids Farewell – What It Says About Brixton
Local tequila and mezcal bar Hacha Brixton announced it will pour its last margaritas on Feb 15 after nearly four years in Brixton Village. Owners Deano Moncrieffe and Emma Murphy said “circumstances beyond our control” led to the tough decision to close. The news has Brixtonians talking about the pressures on independent businesses — from rising rents to changing footfall — and reminiscing about Hacha’s award-winning cocktails. While its Dalston location will continue, the loss of Hacha in Brixton feels symbolic to many: a reminder of the challenges local entrepreneurs face.
Safer Streets Initiative – Ongoing Conversations
Safety in the town centre remains a pressing issue. Many residents have raised concerns about crime and anti-social behaviour around central Brixton, saying it had gotten “the worst for decades” by late last year. In response, Lambeth Council — led by Brixton-born Cllr. Mahamed Hashi — and the police have been boosting on-street patrols and outreach. A dedicated team of outreach workers now engages with individuals in hotspots like Windrush Square and Electric Avenue daily, connecting those struggling with drug misuse to support services. This community-led push for safety is a big discussion point: locals are cautiously optimistic as they notice increased police presence and council engagement aimed at making Brixton feel safer. The dialogue continues on how to balance enforcement with compassion, and ensure Brixton’s streets are welcoming for everyone.
Films at The Ritzy Cinema
Our beloved Ritzy is serving up an eclectic mix of screenings this week, from vintage classics to exclusive events. Here are a few highlights for film fans:
The Last Showgirl + Pamela Anderson Q&A (Recorded)
On Monday, Feb 10, The Ritzy is hosting a special screening of The Last Showgirl — accompanied by a recorded Q&A with Pamela Anderson, who features in the film. This event is part of the Picturehouse “Screen Arts” series, bringing unique behind-the-scenes content to Brixton. If you’re curious about Pamela’s latest project (beyond Baywatch memories), grab a ticket for this one-night showing at 6:00pm.
The Graduate (1967) – ReDiscover Classic
Plastics? No, it’s all about classics! As part of the ReDiscover series, The Ritzy will screen The Graduate — the iconic 1967 Dustin Hoffman comedy-drama — on Friday, Feb 7. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve seen it a dozen times, there’s nothing like watching this coming-of-age classic on the big screen. (“Mrs. Robinson, you’re trying to seduce me,” has never sounded better than in a packed cinema.)
Coming Soon – Marvel in Brixton
Looking ahead to next week, Marvel aficionados can rejoice: Captain America: Brave New World hits The Ritzy on Feb 14. It’s the latest chapter in the MCU, and tickets are already on sale. Valentine’s Day plans, sorted — who needs romance when you have superheroes? (Or better yet, bring a date who loves action films!
Spread the Brixton Love
If you enjoyed this newsletter, share it with someone else in Brixton who would love it, too. Word of mouth is how our community grows stronger! Forward this email, share the link or mention The BCC List to a neighbour at the market. Let’s bring one more Brixtonian into the conversation — your recommendation helps keep our community informed, inspired, and united.
Thank you for being part of Brixton Culture Capital. Together, let’s continue celebrating the best of Brixton. Until next time, stay safe and keep the Brixton spirit alive!