Welcome to the Black Cultural Hotspots Directory! My name is Zina Mbanefo, a Royal Holloway Media Arts graduate, and I am thrilled to introduce this invaluable resource celebrating and highlighting all the vibrant culture and contributions of the Black community within the local area of our University.

Growing up in South East London, my Nigerian parents always made sure I was surrounded by and immersed into Afro-Caribbean culture. Because of this, I think that relocating to a new town for university should never change that connection to your culture! Instead, it should be an opportunity to make new connections and expand our horizons.

Navigating and adjusting to university life can be an overwhelming experience. I know first-hand the struggles of trying to find your place in an unfamiliar town. When I first arrived at Royal Holloway I was filled with mixed emotions too, but now I can confidently say that the more you put yourself out there, the more rewarding your experience will be. The friends you'll come to cherish are out there too, waiting to be discovered.

With this in mind, it is my pleasure to present this Directory! Collaborating with the Widening Access Team at Royal Holloway to bring you this guide has been an incredibly fulfilling challenge. Whether you are craving a taste of Afro-Caribbean cuisine, in need of a new barber, or seeking a place to stock up on your essential spices, we hope that this directory can help you transform university into your home away from home.

This directory is an unapologetically Black guide to the surrounding area, showcasing the amazing chefs, stylists, and entrepreneurs who are making waves and shaping the future. It is a celebration of our resilience, creativity, and power to thrive in all spaces. Within these pages you'll find businesses that embrace and honour Black culture in their own unique ways. Throughout my time here, I have had the pleasure of indulging in many of these establishments. In particular, Harvest Afro Caribbean in Windsor holds a special place in my heart: when homesickness strikes, there's nothing quite like gathering with my friends at this restaurant to lift my spirits.

So, please enjoy this directory and let it be your guide in discovering the amazing and hidden culture within our wider community!