Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage

Who we are

Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage’s mission is to centre perspectives from the African and African Caribbean Diaspora by embedding them in cultural experiences for all. The programme includes the flagship dance festival, Let’s Dance International Frontiers (LDIF), Black History Month Leicester (BHM) and the annual Windrush Day Lecture.  Through this programme Serendipity has established a legacy: hosting the Living Archive; documenting Black arts; heritage and culture; publishing the voices of Black artists and community activists; nurturing artists to create high quality new work; and mentoring young people as they navigate the industry.

Serendipity’s strength as a Black-led organisation is in working in partnership with artists, venues, educational institutions, museums, producers, directors, promoters, media companies and agencies, both in the UK and across international forums.

Our culture and values

Vision

Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage transforms the cultural landscape through innovative and inspiring programmes.

Mission

Our mission is to celebrate, preserve and support Black creative expression, whilst promoting social change, community engagement and diversity within the arts sector.

Values

• International: A global perspective, working together to make great things happen.
• Creative: Showcasing innovative work that pushes boundaries and imaginative problem solving.
• Diverse: Championing access and inclusion for all.
• Quality: Professional, high standard artistic work and practice that exceeds expectations.
• Sharing: Opportunities to share knowledge and practice, inform and inspire.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

At Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage, we are committed to fostering a learning environment that is inclusive, equitable, diverse, and representative of the rich histories and traditions of Black British, African, African Caribbean and Latine dance and performance.  As Black-led, culturally specific organisation, we acknowledge the systemic barriers that Black and global majority artists have historically faced in the arts and education sectors.  Our mission is to actively dismantle these barriers and create a space where all students feel valued, respected, and empowered.

Serendipity's work is built on a foundation of intersectionality and inclusion, recognising that race, gender, sexuality, disability, class, age, and nationality are interconnected factors that shape lived experiences.  True inclusion is not just about access; it is about ensuring that all voices are heard, respected, and actively engaged in shaping the programme.