Brunch on the Bloc
Elizabeth Akanbi
It would appear that London has completely skipped spring, and if summer is so kind to visit us, London streets will be heaving with bright coloured outfits, afros and the flavoursome waft from food pop ups.
With brunches replacing dinners, we were excited to hear of Brunch on the Bloc, organised by The Social Bloc; a lifestyle brand that exists to create pop up social events, highlighting the arts, music, food and drink of the African culture. Leading up to their launch event ‘Brunch on the Bloc’, we had to chat with Co-Founder Elizabeth Akanbi about why the African experience is important in Britain and what amazing things they have lined up for Saturday..
Elizabeth tells us that the idea for The Social Bloc ignited from a conversation with her friend and Co-Founder Nike Odeleye about what they felt was a lack in cultural events, “Nike said to me, there’s a lot to do but nothing that covers the African culture, in terms of food, art, music”. With that said, Elizabeth and Nike began to create what they wished existed - The Social Bloc was born.
Both Elizabeth and Nike are of African descent and feel strongly about the accurate representation Africa in its fullness, “we decided that each event would focus on a different part of Africa so this particular Brunch on the Bloc has a North African inspired menu. We want to focus on Africa as a whole, and draw attention to places that sometimes go unnoticed, like Eritrea, Morocco and Mauritius”.
The Social Bloc brand captures the idea of taste, learn and play with the aim of merging pivotal elements of the African culture in a social and immersive environment in the UK. As Britain becomes increasingly more diverse, the desire to experience different cultures has risen simultaneously. After living in Nigeria for 6 years, Elizabeth is keen for The Social Bloc to design experiences for Britons to enjoy the richness of African culture, while reminding them of the importance of visiting their respective ethnic origins, “I know Nigerians who have never been to Nigeria on holiday but they are going to other countries to go on holiday, and I think to myself, is this because of what the media has shown you?”
Contrary to mainstream media projection, Africa continues to one of the most progressive continents in the world, pushing boundaries in innovation, architecture and entertainment. The Social Bloc strives to create parallel experiences in London that provide authentic experiential events for all.
Brunch on the Bloc includes a full spread brunch cooked by the incredible chef Raymond, a vibrant live band, a DJ set by DJ Baj and live performances by Dinachi and Poe. Even if the sun doesn't join us this weekend, good vibes, good music and good food are most definitely guaranteed!
Socialise with The Social Bloc
Instagram: @thesocialblocuk | Twitter: @thesocialblocuk | Facebook: The Social Bloc UK
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