Our Legacy

Stewards of African Heritage

SYALACHC stands as a living testament to the vibrant history and contributions of the African diaspora in South Yorkshire. We don't just store history we breathe life into it through language, story, and culture.

Contemporary gallery space with warm wooden floors and large windows casting soft natural light

Constituted 2025

Sheffield-rooted, Year One preserving the roots that nourish our community's future.

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Our Mission

"To document, celebrate, and amplify the lived experiences of South Yorkshire's African communities through language and culture ensuring our heritage remains indelible for future generations."

The Process

Building a Living Archive

A living archive is not a dusty basement of papers. It is a dynamic, reciprocal conversation between the past and the present. At SYALACHC, we leverage digital storytelling, oral history recording, and community-curated exhibitions to keep our heritage in constant motion.

Curation

Expert selection of artefacts and stories that define our local identity.

Education

Workshops and school programmes teaching African heritage through art and language.

Leadership

Executive Committee

The visionary hands and strategic minds shaping our cultural preservation efforts bringing a diverse mosaic of professional expertise and heartfelt community commitment.

Portrait of Dr. Amara Okafor, Director & Chair
Director & Chair

Dr. Amara Okafor

With over 20 years in archival science and a profound passion for oral traditions, Dr. Okafor leads our strategic vision blending academic rigour with deep community heart.

Archival ScienceStrategic Planning
Portrait of Marcus Thompson, Financial Steward
Financial Steward

Marcus Thompson

Specialist in non-profit sustainability and community-driven investment models keeping the centre a lasting pillar.

Sustainability
Portrait of Elena Silva, Cultural Outreach Liaison

Elena Silva

Cultural Outreach Liaison

Building bridges between diaspora groups across South Yorkshire.

Portrait of David Kalu, Digital Archive Lead

David Kalu

Digital Archive Lead

Leading our digital storytelling and preservation tooling.

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"Every voice is a thread in the living tapestry of our town."

A SYALACHC Heritage Mandate