Kent Equality Cohesion Council

Tag: Kent Equality Cohesion Council

  • Gravesham South Asian Heritage Month Celebrations Brings Communities Together

    Gravesham South Asian Heritage Month Celebrations Brings Communities Together

    Gravesham South Asian Heritage Month Celebrations Brings Communities Together

    Kent Equality Cohesion Council supported Cohesion Plus in delivering an annual South Asian Heritage Month celebration in Gravesham on Tuesday 21st July. The celebration took place at The Studio in Woodville Halls and was a full house with some 150 members of the local community attending.

    There was a programme of short film screenings that showcased local community figures and grass roots organisations and the longstanding community work they have been doing over the years. The films were a continuation of Cohesion Plus produced series Big Stories Local Legends, a series that explores the lives of often unsung heroes within the community and the vast contribution they make to the lives around them.

    Civic guests included Deputy Lieutenant Gill Fargher and the Mayor of Gravesham, Cllr Alison Williams who addressed the audiences and spoke about the vast contributions the South Asian diaspora had made to the fabric of British society.

    One of the main parts of the evening was the presentation of the Dev Sharma MBE Community Awards which were presented to Jugjit Sian, Ejaz Aslam, Mala Singh and Cllr Gurdip Bunger for their many years of selfless volunteer work within the local community around sports, faith and community cohesion, demonstrating leadership, commitment and dedication through their work. KKB Group a local business who over recent years have done a lot of engagement and outreach work in the local community and supported different organisations and events were also recognised for their positive contribution.

    The awards are named in memory of Dev Sharma MBE, the former Chair of KECC whose contribution to community life continues to inspire efforts to recognise those who work quietly and consistently to support others.

    The celebration highlighted the strength and diversity of Gravesham’s South Asian communities and recognised the many individuals and organisations that continue to make a positive difference across the borough.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of KECC, commented:

    “South Asian Heritage Month and celebrations like it such as Black History are not about dividing communities—they are about recognising the individuals whose hard work, dedication and commitment have made a lasting, positive impact on the people around them. By celebrating local champions on their own merits, we strengthen our shared sense of belonging, inspire future generations, and reinforce the values that make British society diverse, inclusive and united.”

  • Dartford South Asian Heritage Month Celebration Brings Community Together

    Dartford South Asian Heritage Month Celebration Brings Community Together

    Dartford South Asian Heritage Month Celebration Brings Community Together

    Kent Equality Cohesion Council was proud to support the Dartford South Asian Heritage Month celebration on Tuesday 7 July 2026 at Orchard West Theatre, working in partnership with Cohesion Plus, Dartford Borough Council, The Mentor Ring and Orchard West Theatre, with support from Arts Council England.

    The evening brought together local residents, artists, community representatives and civic guests to celebrate South Asian heritage, local talent and the contribution of community champions who have helped shape life in Dartford over many years.

    Welcome speeches were given by Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, speaking in his role as Deputy Lieutenant of Kent representing the Lord Lieutenant, Cllr Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council, and Cllr Avtar Sandhu MBE, Mayor of Dartford. They spoke about the importance of South Asian Heritage Month; the value of community cohesion and the positive role South Asian communities continue to play in the life of the borough.

    While the evening included a programme of cultural performances, the main focus was on bringing people together and recognising the strength of Dartford’s communities. Local groups and performers helped create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with music and dance reflecting the diversity, creativity and traditions of the South Asian community.

    One of the key moments of the evening was the presentation of the Dev Sharma Community Awards. Dev Sharma was a long-standing Chair of KECC and was the former Director of the North West Kent Racial Equality Council, who dedicated many years to promoting equality, cohesion and community engagement.

    The awards recognised three local community champions who have served Dartford selflessly over many years. The recipients were Dr Chandika Bhatta, founder of the Dartford Nepalese Community Group, Baldev Singh Bains from the Guru Hargobind Gurdwara in Dartford, and Cllr Avtar Sandhu MBE, Mayor of Dartford. Each recipient has made a lasting contribution to community life and helped build stronger links between different communities in the borough.

    The event also featured the premiere of a new film from Series 3 of Big Stories, Local Legends, a series of short films produced by Cohesion Plus celebrating local people and their stories. This latest film focused on the late Darshan Singh Sandhu, father of Cllr Avtar Sandhu MBE and Cllr Rags Sandhu. It told the story of his journey, values and contribution to Dartford, while also highlighting the wider story of first-generation South Asian residents who helped build strong community links in the town.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, Chief Executive of Kent Equality Cohesion Council commented:

    “We were really pleased to be part of this year’s Dartford South Asian Heritage Month celebration. The evening was about more than performances; it was about community, shared history and recognising people who have quietly given so much to the borough over many years.

    The Dev Sharma Community Awards were especially important because they allowed us to honour local champions who have helped bring people together and strengthen community life in Dartford. The premiere of the latest Big Stories, Local Legends film was also a powerful reminder of the contribution made by first-generation South Asian residents and the values they passed on to future generations.

    At a time when there is still division in society, events like this matter. They show that people can be proud of their heritage, proud of where they live and proud to be part of modern day Britain.”

  • Vaisakhi in Gravesham

    Vaisakhi in Gravesham

    Thousands Celebrate Vaisakhi in Gravesham

    Vaisakhi celebrations took place in Gravesham on Saturday 18th April to mark the founding of the Sikh faith as well as the beginning of the harvest year, and are traditionally celebrated in India with a procession from the local Gurdwara and through the surrounding villages.

    Organised by Gurdwara Management Committee, the local procession comprising of thousands of attendees began from Gravesend Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara and made its way through the town centre. The procession featured traditional music as well as the giving out of free food and drinks to onlookers and attendees alike in the spirit of Sewa (selfless service), one of the main pillars of the Sikh faith.

    Kent Equality Cohesion Council was honoured that its CEO Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL was able to attend in his capacity as Deputy Lieutenant, representing the Lord Lieutenant of Kent, Lady Colgrain. He commented,
    “Vaisakhi is wonderful celebration that displays the amazing, rich diversity of North Kent and the amazing contributions the Sikh community have made to the fabric of society in the area. Vaisakhi is not just a celebration for those of the Sikh faith, rather it’s an opportunity for everyone from all walks of life to come together in the spirit of unity, celebration and equality. I am honoured beyond words to haven been able to attend not just as a member of the Sikh faith but also as the first Sikh Deputy Lieutenant in Kent. It is particularly heart-warming to see everyone together celebrating as one. I hold great faith that the unity on display during the celebrations is a true reflection of British society.”

  • Communities Come Together in North Kent

    Communities Come Together in North Kent

    Communities Come Together in North Kent

    The sun was shining on Saint George’s Day celebrations as local communities came together to mark the patron saint of England on Thursday 23rd April in Gravesend and Dartford.

    The celebrations were produced by Cohesion Plus and Kent Equality Cohesion Council, supported by Dartford Borough Council, Arts Council England and KKB Construction.

    The day began in Gravesend, where 13 local schools and around 700 young people took part in a colorful parade through the town centre which also featured Civic Guests including Deputy Lieutenant of Kent Bhargawa Vasudaven, Mayor Cllr Jenny Wallace and KCC Chair Cllr Richard Palmer. There was also a strong Inter Faith presence including representatives from the Christian, Muslim, Jewish and Sikh faiths sending a message of unity.

    In the afternoon, celebrations continued in Dartford, where 10 local schools and approximately 600 young people paraded along the High Street which also included Deputy Lieutenant Nadra Ahmed, Leader of Dartford Borough Council Cllr Jeremy Kite, Mayor Cllr Peter Whapshott and Jim Dixon MP.

    Young people proudly displayed Saint George themed shields, coats of arms, dragons and banners they had created in the lead up to the event. Their work reflected messages of friendship, inclusion, unity and respect — values that remain at the heart of modern community celebrations.

    Both town centres were filled with families, residents and visitors enjoying a lively programme of entertainment, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all. Highlights included brass bands, themed performers, Saint George himself in full chainmail costume, the magical Show Globe representing the English Rose, and a giant fire-breathing dragon that joined the parades and delighted crowds of all ages.

    The celebrations provided an important opportunity for people of all ethnicities, faiths and backgrounds to come together, celebrate local pride and recognise the strength that diversity brings to communities across Kent. Saint George’s Day continues to show how shared traditions can unite people and create lasting memories for the next generation.

    Gurvinder Sandher, CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council, said:

    “Saint George’s Day is about bringing people together and celebrating the pride we all share in our communities. It was wonderful to see so many young people, families and residents taking part in Gravesend and Dartford. Events like this show that no matter our background, we are stronger when we celebrate together in a spirit of friendship, unity and respect.”

  • Lunar New Year celebrations brings Maidstone communities together

    Lunar New Year celebrations brings Maidstone communities together

    Lunar New Year celebrations brings Maidstone communities together

    Maidstone’s communities came together on Saturday 21st February to celebrate Lunar New Year and usher in the Year of the Horse. Supported by Kent Equality Cohesion Council and delivered by Cohesion Plus working in partnership with Maidstone Cultural Group and Maidstone Borough Council, the celebrations saw people turn out in their hundreds.

    The festivities were officially opened by Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, who warmly welcomed attendees. Deputy Lieutenant Andrew Wood DL and The Mayor of Maidstone Cllr Martin Round were also present to greet members of the public.

    The celebrations were officially declared open with the traditional “marking of the Lions” ceremony, a symbolic ritual that awakens the lions and ushers in good fortune for the New Year. The spectacle captivated the crowd and set the tone for a dynamic afternoon of performances.

    After the ceremony there dazzling performances by Kudos Combat’s Dancing Lions who wowed the crowds with their mischievous antics and SOAS University of London who performed traditional Chinese Tea Room music. Graceful traditional dance was performance by classical dancer Wei He. Jose Navarro put on an interactive show of traditional Chinese puppets thrilling onlookers.

    Gurvinder Sandher CEO of KECC commented, “It is always such an honour to deliver the annual Lunar New Year celebrations with the County Town of Kent and its welcoming residents. The success of the celebrations is once again a clear example of Maidstone’s commitment to embracing global traditions and celebrating diversity. It is always our goal to bring people together regardless of cultural backgrounds to celebrate together and ultimately, strengthen community bonds.”

  • Ebbsfleet Magical Winter Festival

    Ebbsfleet Magical Winter Festival

    Kent Equality Cohesion Council Delighted to Partner on Ebbsfleet Magical Winter Festival

    Kent Equality Cohesion Council was delighted to be a partner in the Ebbsfleet Magical Winter Festival, which took place at Platinum Jubilee Park on Friday 6th February. Despite challenging weather conditions, over a thousand people attended the event, coming together to celebrate an evening of light, creativity, and community spirit in the heart of Ebbsfleet.

    The free community festival transformed the park into a breath-taking winter wonderland, with a dazzling array of magical light installations creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for visitors of all ages. A highlight of the evening was the first-ever lantern parade, led by pupils from five local schools, who proudly showcased lanterns they had created themselves alongside designs by Same Sky. The illuminated procession symbolised shared creativity, unity, and hope during the darker winter months.

    Festival-goers also enjoyed a vibrant programme of street and musical performances as well as a life size, fully interactive Polar Bear which added to the sense of wonder and excitement throughout the evening.

    The festival was supported by Kent Equality Cohesion Council and organised by Cohesion Plus and Ebbsfleet Development Corporation, with support from Arts Council England, Kent Equality Cohesion Council, Same Sky, and KKB Group. Kent Equality Cohesion Council was proud to support the event as part of its ongoing commitment to promoting inclusion, equality, and cohesion through community-led cultural activity.

    The festival was also attended by key civic partners, including the Mayor of Dartford, Cllr Whappshot; the Leader of Dartford Borough Council, Jeremy Kite MBE; and the new Chair of Ebbsfleet Development Corporation, Geoff Prout CB. Their presence underlined the importance of partnership working and shared commitment to strengthening communities across the borough.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council commented

    “The Ebbsfleet Magical Winter Festival stood as a powerful example of how arts and culture can bring people together, even in challenging conditions, creating moments of joy, connection, and shared pride for the whole community.”

  • Faith Leaders Come Together at Rochester Cathedral to Celebrate Unity and Collaboration

    Faith Leaders Come Together at Rochester Cathedral to Celebrate Unity and Collaboration

    Faith Leaders Come Together at Rochester Cathedral to Celebrate Unity and Collaboration

    Over 30 faith organisations and community organisations from across Kent and Medway gathered at Rochester Cathedral on Wednesday 12 November for a special Inter Faith event hosted by HM Lord-Lieutenant of Kent, Lady Colgrain, in partnership with the Kent Equality Cohesion Council.

    The event brought together leaders and members from a wide range of faiths alongside cadets from Kent Police and the Armed Forces, highlighting the spirit of unity, respect, and mutual understanding that exists across the county.

    The aim of the gathering was to celebrate the positive contributions faith groups make to their local communities and to create opportunities for networking and collaboration between organisations. Attendees shared experiences, built new connections, and explored how they could continue to work together to support community cohesion and wellbeing across Kent and Medway.

    Speaking after the event, Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council, said:

    “Events like this are vital in bringing people of all faiths and backgrounds together. They remind us of the shared values that unite our communities – compassion, service, and respect. By creating spaces for dialogue and collaboration, we can continue to strengthen understanding and cohesion across Kent and Medway.”

    HM Lord-Lieutenant Lady Colgrain praised the work of local faith leaders and volunteers, recognising their ongoing role in supporting communities through challenging times and fostering a sense of togetherness.

    The event formed part of Inter Faith Week, a national initiative that promotes understanding and cooperation among the UK’s diverse faith communities.

  • Gravesend Community Celebrates Diwali with Joy and Togetherness

    Gravesend Community Celebrates Diwali with Joy and Togetherness

    Gravesend Community Celebrates Diwali with Joy and Togetherness

    Gravesend came alive with colour, music, and celebration on Friday 14th November as the community gathered to mark Diwali, the Festival of Lights. The event was organised by the Kent Equality Cohesion Council (KECC) in partnership with Cohesion Plus, and placed a special emphasis on engaging residents aged 65 and over.

    The celebration featured an exciting line-up of performances, including live music from Replay Music, energetic routines by the 4×4 Bhangra Group, and powerful drumming from the Kings of Dhol. The event aimed to bring people together to share in the spirit of Diwali while tackling issues of isolation among older members of the community.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL, CEO of the Kent Equality Cohesion Council, said:

    “Diwali is a time to celebrate light, hope, and new beginnings, and it was heartwarming to see our community come together in that spirit. Events like this are so important, particularly for our older residents, many of whom have faced isolation in recent years. Providing opportunities for people to connect, celebrate, and feel valued is at the heart of what we do, and this event showed the real power of community cohesion in action.”

    The Kent Equality Cohesion Council continues to work across North Kent to promote equality, foster positive community relations, and celebrate diversity and cohesion through inclusive events and activities.

  • Wrotham Festival of Light wows for its 12th year of celebrations

    Wrotham Festival of Light wows for its 12th year of celebrations

    Wrotham Festival of Light wows for its 12th year of celebrations

    The much-anticipated Wrotham Festival of Light returned on Friday 10th October, bringing the communities of Wrotham together once again, lighting up the village with colour and community spirit. Now in its 12th year, the beloved annual event continues to draw hundreds of attendees from Wrotham and the surrounding areas.

    Supported by Kent Equality Cohesion Council, the festival was delivered in partnership with Cohesion Plus, Saint George’s Primary School, and Same Sky Arts, with additional support from Arts Council England and Wrotham Parish Council.

    The spectacular lantern parade was led by the Deputy Lieutenant Louise Bryant, and Saint George’s Primary School Headteacher Elizabeth Rye. They were joined by hundreds of children, parents, and guardians as the parade journeyed from Saint George’s Church to the village cricket ground.

    The evening concluded with a spectacular fireworks display by local business Phoenix Fireworks, lighting up the night sky to the delight of all in attendance.

    Gurvinder Sandher MBE DL the Artistic Director of Cohesion Plus commented
    “The Wrotham Festival of Light is always a special event for us to deliver as it not only marks the launch of our autumn and winter programme, it also allows us an opportunity to deliver community activity in the heart of a rural setting. It’s a joy to create opportunities for children and their families to take part in these unique celebrations. As always, I’m deeply thankful to our partners and to everyone who came out to support the event.”

  • Dartford Celebrates Black History Month with Inspiring Community Event

    Dartford Celebrates Black History Month with Inspiring Community Event

    Dartford Celebrates Black History Month with Inspiring Community Event

    The Dartford community came together on Wednesday 1st October at the Temple Hill Community Centre to mark Black History Month with an evening of powerful performances, inspiring talks, and community spirit around the theme of “Standing Firm in Pride and Power”

    The celebration was organised by Kent Equality Cohesion Council and Cohesion Plus working in partnership with Dartford Borough Council. The event shone a spotlight on the positive contributions made by the Black community in Britain, both past and present.

    The evening opened with a moving one-man performance by actor O’Shea Lamar, who brought to life the story of a Jamaican RAF pilot during World War II, exploring the challenges he faced as a Black man serving his country.

    The event featured compelling speeches from inspirational figures such as Cedi Fredrick Chair of the NHS and Medway Integrated Care Board, Karin Muya Professional Footballer, Akua Agyepong Community Champion, and Michelle Bramble, Chair of Cohesion Plus and The North Kent Caribbean Network. The speakers shared personal stories of identity, pride, and perseverance — offering insights into how they continue to stand firm in their own power while navigating professional and cultural spaces.

    Civic guests in attendance included Kelvin Holford, Deputy Lieutenant of Kent, Cllr Peter Whapshott, Mayor of Dartford, and Cllr Jeremy Kite, Leader of Dartford Borough Council, who each expressed their pride in supporting the event.

    To close the programme, Ebonie G captivated the audience with a moving performance of an original song. Her lyrics echoed the spirit of this year’s theme, “Standing Firm in Pride and Power”, leaving the audience inspired and energised — a fitting end to an evening of celebrating Black History Month,

    Gurvinder Sandher, CEO of Kent Equality Cohesion Council, also addressed the audience, reminding everyone that Black History is British History and that symbols like the Union Flag and the Cross of St George belong to everyone, regardless of ethnicity or faith.