In celebration of this year’s AFRIFEST, African Voices Forum Ltd (AVF) organized a special youth trip to the
National Memorial Arboretum, a place of remembrance for fallen officers of WW1 and WW2. Thanks to the
generous sponsorship of the Royal British Legion. Building on last year’s exploration of Afro-Caribbean
history at the national museum, this trip offered a deeper look into the contributions of Afro-Caribbean
veterans.
Our young participants had the unique opportunity to meet Logan Pemberton who joined the Royal Air force in
1972, who shared his experiences and insights into the sacrifices made by men and women from Africa and
the Caribbean, who crossed continents to serve in the wartime. Through his story, and their visit to the
various memorials, the youth were able to connect with a powerful legacy of courage, resilience, and service.
A particularly impactful moment was the “Shot at Dawn” memorial, which honores people who faced tragic
fates due to the misunderstandings of wartime pressures. This visit left the youth with a profound
appreciation for the contributions of Afro-Caribbean individuals throughout history, inspiring a sense of pride
and remembrance.
This trip, sponsored by the Royal British Legion as part of AVF’s ongoing commitment to educating and
empowering the next generation, left a lasting impact, underscoring the importance of honoring our heritage
and the enduring legacy of those who paved the way.
