Sheroes
“How important it is for us to recognise and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!”
Wandsworth Council is excited to present Celebrating Wandsworth’s Sheroes, an exhibition of vibrant portraits acknowledging some of the remarkable African Caribbean women in the borough, who are making a difference in business, the community and sports.
Originally coined in the suffrage movement in 1836, the term Shero – female – defines admirable women who are praised for their courage, outstanding achievements and noble qualities. In short, a Shero is a modern-day heroine.
Wandsworth’s Sheroes are everyday people. They are all around us… They exist at work, home, schools and within the community – supporting, encouraging and pushing others to be their best selves.
Celebrating Wandsworth’s Sheroes recognises 16 of these inspiring women, photographed in their ‘Wandsworth happy place.’ They have also shared nuggets of their lives – heritage, inspirations, who they cite as their own Sheroes within our and where they find they joy. Read there stories here. This ongoing exhibition is a nod to those making strides in their chosen field as well as making a difference within the community.
Sisters, we salute you.
This project is commissioned by Wandsworth Council
Co-ordinated by Jenni Asiama, Enterprise and Business Communications Manager
Damilola Gbadebo, Public Health Lead at Richmond and Wandsworth Councils
Photography by Dominique Nok
Victoria and Anna Agyekum
Sisters and founders of On Point Property Management, Est. 2015
Describe your heritage…
Ghanaian – which we hold dear and feel a deep connection to. Our father arrived in the UK in 1967, and our mother followed suit in 1971.
Where did you choose to be photographed for this shoot and why?
We have been managing properties at Embassy Gardens since 2018, so it holds a special place in our hearts. It symbolises not only the growth and progress of the area but also our own journey and impact within it.
What we love most about Wandsworth is….
That it continues to captivate us with its unique blend of a leafy outer suburb, attractive residential areas, and vast expanses of parks and commons.
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
Our mother Mrs Mary Agyekum. Her strength and determination have been a constant source of inspiration for us, and we are grateful for her unwavering support and guidance throughout our lives.
Our Wandsworth Sheroe is…
Juliana Annan, the Mayor of Wandsworth serves as an inspiration to many, showing that with determination, positivity, and humility, one can accomplish great things.
Catherine Marche
Founder of Catherine Marche Jewellery, est. 2007
Describe your Heritage…
I am the result of a wonderful French melting pot. My mother grew up in Martinique, a French island with mixed French, Caribbean, American roots and my father is from Lyon with French and Lithuanian ancestry.
When did you come to the UK?
I moved to the UK to join my British/American boyfriend in 1998. We have now been married for 24 years.
Where did you choose to be photographed and why?
My studio, where I am surrounded by all the tools and machinery I need to make jewellery as well as various art materials allowing me to be creative in my own special space.
What I love most about Wandsworth is…
The big open spaces, multi-culturalism, and many wonderful restaurants with delicious international cuisine.
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
Josephine Baker was a wonderful American-born French dancer, singer and actress. She was radiant, free and a civil rights activist.
My Wandsworth Sheroe is….
Fiona Warn. She has a heart of gold and gives her time to help with street parties, refugees, cleaning spaces, planting flowers and plants.
Dawn Burton
Founder Caribburton Caterers, Est 2010 (Also Co-founder the Caribbean Food Collective, Est. 2019 and co-founder of the UK Caribbean Food Awards, Est. in 2022
Describe your heritage…
Jamaican. My parents came to the UK in 1956
Where did you choose to be photographed for this shoot and why?
We chose Nine Elms because my business partner Marsha and I spent our younger years growing up in Battersea. We grew up seeing the changes of the historic Battersea Power Station transform to what it is today.
What I love most about Wandsworth is…
Its history and cultural diversity
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
Charlene White, the TV presenter who is both visible and outspoken.
My Wandsworth Sheroe is…
Deputy leader of the Council Kemi Akinola, who is both a great food advocate and activist.
Marsha Bennett
Co-founder the Caribbean Food Collective, Est. 2019. Co-founder of the UK Caribbean Food Awards, Est. in 2022
My heritage is …
Jamaican mixture
When did you/your parents come to the UK?
My grandparents arrived here in 1963
Describe your business in one sentence…
A body to promote, support and connect Caribbean Food and beverage businesses
The achievement I’m most proud of is…
Campaigning for and attaining a named Caribbean category in the British Take Away Awards
What I most love about Wandsworth is…
Its diversity
The woman of colour I most admire is…
Maya Angelou. She was the first female author I remember reading who encouraged people to overcome adversity.
My Wandsworth Sheroe is…
Jenni Asiama, from the Council’s Enterprise team, who has supported and kept us informed from the first steps of our organisation until now.
Kemilia-Jean and Stella Ogunmuyiwa
Corporate lawyer Co-owner of MUD café Tooting since 2019
Describe your heritage…
Nigerian/English. My Father was born in the UK and my mother and I arrived from Nigeria in 1988, shortly after I was born.
Describe your business in on sentence…
MUD is a stylish and relaxed cafe which has become a much-loved neighbourhood destination for delicious brunch dishes with a West African and Caribbean twist.
What achievement are you most proud of?
We have recently featured in the “Evening Standard’s top 10 best brunches in London 2023” which is an incredible accolade. But mainly, we are proud to have been able to introduce traditionally Black ingredients like plantain, scotch bonnet chillis and jollof rice to a whole new audience.
Where did you choose to be photographed and why?
I chose MUD because it is my happy place, so there was no better location.
What I love most about Wandsworth is…
From taking a peaceful stroll around Tooting Common to buying Black ingredients from Tooting Market; I love that Wandsworth offers something for everyone! I also love how the local council is supporting local businesses and championing community leaders .
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
I have huge admiration and respect for my mother, Stella. She mother has always fought to equip us with all the tools for success and ensure that we were seen as proud, talented Black people deserving of respect.
My Wandsworth Sheroe is…
Cllr Kemi Akinola (Deputy Leader of Wandsworth Council). Her work to eradicate food poverty is so inspiring. Further, she is a visible presence within the local community, listening to people and working hard to improve the lives of those with whom she interacts.
Pauline Acheron-Pintureau
Chef. Founder - Marie et Marcelle, Est 2021
Describe your heritage…
I was born and raised in France. My father is from Guadeloupe, a French island in the Caribbean.
When did you come to the UK?
In 2014 after graduating from university.
Describe your business in one sentence…
Marie et Marcelle is a women-led food business delivering fresh and seasonal meals to London businesses and individuals. It was named after my grandmother Marcelle, who has been a great inspiration to me.
What achievement are you most proud of?
Taking a break from my career working in an investment bank to come back to the food industry where I started over 15 years ago, to set up my business.
Where did you choose to be photographed and why?
Misson Kitchen in Nine Elms. It’s a collaborative space where I can meet, connect and collaborate with other like-minded individuals and small business owners. I operate my business from this shared kitchen environment, and it is where I spend most of my time.
The woman of colour I most admire is…
Nina Simone. I admire her work and love to play her songs on the piano.
My Wandsworth Sheroe is…
Hadas Hagos for the work she does with Waste Not Want Not, to support the local community and youth centres.
Joyce Fraser, OBE
Founder of The Black Heroes Foundation, Est. 2016
Describe your heritage…
Jamaican
When did your parents come to the UK?
In the 1950’s
Describe your business in one sentence…
The Black Heroes Foundation brings joy, using the arts to tell the stories of Black Heroes.
What achievement are you most proud of?
The writing and production of plays such as The Story of John Archer, Claudia Jones and the story of Flip Fraser – and for being awarded an OBE in 2023
Where did you choose to be photographed and why?
Battersea Arts Centre (BAC), because of its importance as a historic and cultural centre in Battersea. BAC provided workspace for us in our early years and have continued to support us.
What I love most about Wandsworth is…
The people and it’s vibrant diversity.
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
My mother Olive King. She always believed in me, supported me and made me a proud Black woman. She had wisdom and love beyond belief.
My Wandsworth Sheroe is…
Claire Jackson – she quietly and passionately supports people across the board. Claire is a Trustee for Black Heroes Foundation, but supports other charities in the borough, and for her day job runs a charity looking after children in care. She is a selfless, kind, loving individual.
Neomi Bennett
MEB Founder of Neo Innovations, Est. 2015 and Equality4 Black Nurses Nurses, Est. 2022
Describe your heritage…
I was born in the UK. My grandmother and my parents – who came to the UK in 1953/1955 – were born in Jamaica. I was raised by my grandmother Gwendaline Robinson, who has been my biggest inspiration.
Describe your business in one sentence
The Neo Slip, is a device to aid the application of compression socks.
What achievement are you most proud of?
Launching Equality 4 Black Nurses, a grassroots organisation, to support Nurses experiencing discrimination.
Where did you choose to be photographed and why?
I experienced a traumatic event in 2019, which affected me mentally. I found comfort in this location and spent hours meditating, trying to work things out and formulating how to build my strength from here.
What I love most about Wandsworth is…
The scenic waterside walks along the River Thames and the strong sense of community, especially within the business sector.
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
Olive Morris (1952-1979), who was a Jamaican-born British community leader. I admire her because she believed in the power of community organising and was dedicated to empowering Black and minority ethnic communities by giving them a voice and the tools to challenge systemic inequalities.
My Wandsworth Sheroe is…
Cllr Katrina Ffrench, who is an incredible activist and the founder of UNJUST CIC – a non-profit organisation which addresses the discriminatory culture in UK policing and the broader criminal legal system.
Cllr Juliana Anan
Founder of Agoe Empowerment Network est 2021 and co-founder of Support4Support Community Project Ltd
Describe your Heritage
African – Ghanaian
When did you/your parents come to the UK?
1960
Describe your company in one sentence:
Agoe Empowerment Network supports residents with English as a second language to settle into the community. Support4Support, helps underprivileged women and families from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Why did you choose this location for your shoot?
That is where I started my business.
Why is this space special to you?
It has strong community spirit
What do you most love about living in Wandsworth?
Very supportive community
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
Marsha Decordova MP – she is my role model
Who is your Wandsworth Sheroe?
Andrea Marc – a librarian at Old York Road library
Yvonne Stevenson
Head of filming, Wandsworth, Enable
What is your Heritage?
Black Caribbean.
When did you/your parents come to the UK?
In the late 1960s
Describe it in one sentence
The Enable Film Office team supports the increasingly dynamic film and television industry, helping location managers to find an array of diverse locations, streets, buildings and parks in Wandsworth.
What achievement are you most proud of?
Receiving a Letter from the Mayor of London congratulating me for my work with Warner Bros for the feature film Magic Mike’s Last Dance
Closing down the front of the Clapham Grand by Clapham Junction Station for filming, which has never been done before!
Why did you choose this location for your shoot?
Putney Leisure Centre is where I start my morning with an hour swim and gym workout most weekdays!
Why is this space special to you?
It’s my happy place!
Name two things you most love about Wandsworth
Putney and the People of Wandsworth
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
Michelle Obama. The first Black FLOTUS (First Lady of the United States) and AMAZING woman.
Who is your Wandsworth Sheroe?
Marsha de Cordova – MP for Battersea.
Rachel Wang
Co-founder chocolate Films Est. 2001
What is your Heritage?
My mother is Caribbean- born is Jamaica. My father (now passed) was Jewish, he was a Hidden Child of the 2nd World War, born in England.
When did you/your parents come to the UK?
My mother came to London in 1960.
Describe your business in one sentence
Chocolate Films is a film production company and social enterprise, based in London and Glasgow with an international network of filmmakers
What achievement are you most proud of?
At work, I am most proud of building and creating a film studio as it took nine years and we only just moved in at the start of this year. At home I am a proud mother of two children.
Where did you choose to be photographed and why?
I chose Nine Elms Studio as its the new home for Chocolate Films and it is a milestone in the journey of my company, which has its roots in Wandsworth. Nine Elms Studio is a very special place as it’s the embodiment of Mark Currie (co-director of Chocolate Films) and our hard work and passion.
What I love most about Wandsworth is…
It’s my family home, it makes me feel comfortable and I feel I belong here. The people and community are well meaning, peaceful and compassionate.
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
Alive: My mum, Yvonne Wang- she is a real go getter, like me. I love her determination and drive and I admire her passion for fashion. Dead: Queen Nanny, the Queen of Maroon, a Jamaican hero little known about, who managed to lead a rebellion against outsider attack, during a time of violence and injustice.
My Wandworth Sheroe is…
Marsha De Cordova, the Labour politician. I like her energy and drive, though politicians have a bad name, she comes across as truly passionate about helping other people. I find this refreshing.
Tracy Ann King
Founder of Yorkey’s Gym. Est. 2014
What is your Heritage?
Jamaican/Spanish and Scottish
When did you come to the UK?
I came to the UK by myself in 1995 to live with my aunt and uncle. Mom stayed in Jamaica, Dad died when I was two years old.
Describe your business in one sentence
Yorky’s Gym is for everyone, no matter where you’re from, and where you’re going. Everyone is welcome here.
The achievement I’m most proud of is…
Opening Yorkys Gym in Tooting, despite all the setbacks. I’m also proud of the fact that I’m one of the few lady creators and owners of a bodybuilding, fitness, boxing, kickboxing and MMA gym.
Where did you choose to be photographed and why?
I chose my gym Yorkys, because I am Yorkys Gym. This place is like a second home to so many. I am proud of the community and family we’ve created and built.
What I love most about Wandsworth is…
I love the people and how much of diverse borough is.
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
Oprah Winfrey because she showed you can come from nothing, be unique and different and if you believe in yourself and work hard, anything and everything is possible. Plus my grandmother was very much present in bringing me up before I came to London.
My Wandsworth Sheroe is…
My female personal trainers at the gym (Kate, Joli, Carol and Micheala) in my gym that are helping their clients, not just with physical training but with their mental well-being.
Marie Hanson, MBE
STORM Family Centre est in 2004
What is your Heritage?
Black Caribbean
When did you/your parents come to the UK?
1960
Describe your company in one sentence
STORM is a charity created to empower people, with the aim of letting everybody know that there is hope no matter the circumstances (‘Out of the Darkness and into the Light’.
What achievement are you most proud of?
Being honoured with my MBE, and winning a diversity award for Neurodiversity by Genius Within CIC.
Why did you choose this location for your shoot?
It is one of only a few places that are special to me.
Why is this space special to you?
It is a space where I have experienced so many good times in helping people and celebrating achievement.
Name two things you most love about Wandsworth
Lots of things to see and do with places of interest, and it has a rich history as well.
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
Madame CJ Walker the first African American millionaire although she suffered many types of abuse, with her great determination and adversity she was able to inspire all. This self-willed woman was also a well-known ally for the African American / LGBTQIA community, she had a safe house for those who were African American and LGBTQIA.
My Wandsworth Sheroe is…
Malissa Ritchie of Doddington & Rollo Community roof garden, she is so humble, hardworking and hilarious – without Malissa, the D&R roof garden would not be where it is today
Jasmine Nkoso
Student and promising athlete
What is your Heritage?
I am from an African heritage. My mother is from Algeria and my dad is from Democratic Republic of Congo. Yes, we speak French at Home.
When did take up athletics?
I took up athletics just after covid lock down in 2021. I’ve always been into sports: I started gymnastics when I was very young, but it felt like it wasn’t the right sport for me. It thrills me to run against the clock and always look to jump higher or longer and throw further.
Describe what you do in one sentence:
I do pentathlon which is a combination of track and field events: it includes Hurdles, High Jump, Long Jump, Shot Putt and 800m.
What achievement are you most proud of?
I won Bronze in English Schools Pentathlon last month and won the opportunity to represent England in December 2023 at the Schools Combined Events International in Cardiff. I am even more pleased with my achievement as I went through as a first year, the youngest athlete on the current English Team.
Why did you choose this location for your shoot?
Tooting Bec track is the place where I spend the majority of my time and since it’s been refurbished, I’ve really enjoyed training there.
Why is this space special to you?
This place is special because it helps me achieve great results: it has all I need to execute the training programme designed by my Herne Hill coach, Anthony Mayhew.
Name two things you most love about Wandsworth.
One of the things I like is the fact that Wandsworth is very clean compared to other boroughs I’ve lived in. Another thing I love is the way Wandsworth invest in us, young people, and give us amazing experiences and opportunities.
Which woman of colour do you most admire and why?
The woman inspiring me the most is Tina Turner. My second love is singing and acting, and I was lucky enough to be casted on the ‘Tina Turner, the West End musical in 2019. The adult actresses in the performance have shown me how powerful Tina’s voice was and the amazing stage presence she had. Tina really had a command of her own destiny.
Who is your Wandsworth Sheroe and why?
Grace Alleyne the Sport and Physical Activity Officer from Enable because she gives young people in Wandsworth, including me, so many opportunities to get amazing competitive experiences.