Patrick Vernon

Hackney Spaces is hosting community events focused on addressing racial trauma and fostering connections among individuals to share their lived experiences. These gatherings aim to create a supportive environment for open dialogue and understanding. Please share this important initiative with your networks.

At PureGym, we’re passionate about supporting and celebrating our local community. That’s why we’re proud to welcome local hero Patrick Vernon @vernon_patrick someone who has made a lasting impact across the Hackney and Dalston communities through his tireless community work, campaigning, and advocacy. Patrick is widely recognised for: Founding the national celebration of Windrush Day in the UK Championing equality, diversity, and social justice initiatives Supporting mental health awareness Preserving and promoting Black British history and heritage Working closely with local organisations to empower young people and strengthen communities We’re are excited to welcome Patrick to PureGym opening he will be there to help cut the ribbon on opening day. 🎗✂️🎉 #PureGym #localhero #hackney #dalston

In unexpected but powerful moment at the British Library today. On my way to a meeting, I bumped into former Premier League manager Chris Hughton still one of the few successful Black managers at the highest level of the game. What stood out most wasn’t just his football legacy, but his openness in speaking about his recent prostate cancer diagnosis. In a recent interview, he has shared his journey publicly to help raise awareness, particularly among Black men who face significantly higher risks. We spoke briefly, and I shared highlights from the recent event at Molineux Stadium — where the “Saving Black Men’s Lives” manifesto was launched in the West Midlands. This initiative is about tackling stark inequalities in prostate cancer outcomes and ensuring earlier diagnosis, better access to treatment, and culturally relevant support for Black communities. Moments like this matter. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men in the UK, but the impact is not felt equally. Black men are disproportionately affected more likely to be diagnosed later and more likely to die from the disease. Yet awareness, early testing and open conversations can quite literally save lives. That’s why conversations whether at major events, in community spaces, or even chance encounters on the street are so important. Chris Hughton’s willingness to speak out, combined with grassroots and national campaigns, shows the power of collective leadership across sport, health and community. Let’s keep the conversation going. Let’s keep raising awareness. And most importantly let’s ensure more Black men get the support, information and early diagnosis they deserve. #ProstateCancerAwareness #BlackMensHealth #HealthEquity #Leadership #Community Football

Tribute to Clarance Thompson Today we honour the life and legacy of Clarance Thompson   a visionary, a builder of community, and a true pioneer of the Windrush generation. Clarance Thompson stood among those courageous men and women who journeyed to Britain with hope, resilience, and determination. Like many of the Windrush generation Caribbean migrants who arrived between 1948 and 1971 to help rebuild post-war Britain  he did not simply settle here; he helped shape the society we know today. As one of the founders of Presentation Housing Association, Clarance was driven by a powerful belief: that safe, secure housing is not a privilege, but a foundation for dignity, stability, and opportunity. Through his work, he opened doors literally and figuratively for countless families, ensuring that people who were too often overlooked could find a place to call home. But Clarance was more than a housing pioneer. He was entrepreneurial in spirit and rich in ideas. He understood that true empowerment required more than shelter it required economic strength. He championed initiatives that encouraged self-sufficiency, enterprise, and ownership within the Black community. He believed in building not just houses, but futures. His vision was rooted in collective uplift. He saw potential where others saw barriers, and he worked tirelessly to turn that potential into progress. In doing so, he became part of a wider legacy of Windrush pioneers who laid the foundations for generations to come, often in the face of systemic challenges and injustice . Today, we remember Clarance Thompson not only for what he achieved, but for what he stood for: resilience, innovation, community, and empowerment. His work lives on in every family housed, every opportunity created, and every life uplifted. May his legacy continue to inspire us to build, to empower, and to believe in the strength of community. Rest in power, Clarance Thompson.

I am truly honoured and humbled to receive these two prestigious Caribbean Global Awards. This recognition carries even deeper meaning given the personal challenges my family and I have faced in recent months. Within a short space of time, I lost two childhood friends losses that have been deeply felt. At the same time, my father experienced heart failure. It was a very difficult and uncertain period, but by God’s grace and the incredible care he received, he has made remarkable progress and is now preparing to return home. This journey has not been easy for my mum or for our wider family. Yet, in true Caribbean spirit, we came together supporting one another with strength, love and unity. It is for this reason that I dedicate these awards to my parents. My mum, aged 92, and my dad, who will be 95 this year, embody the enduring values of the Windrush Generation resilience, sacrifice, faith and perseverance. Their example has shaped not only my life, but that of our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. These awards are not just a personal milestone they are a tribute to their legacy and to the generations who have paved the way for us all.

If yuh haven’t registered yet for the 11th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, yuh need fi do it ASAP! Come on, Jamaican family! From yard to foreign, from every corner of di world dis is our time fi link up, build up, and show up strong! This is more than a gathering. This is about business, trade, investment, networking, culture, and opportunity. Jamaica is opening di doors for entrepreneurs, professionals, investors, creatives, community leaders, and everybody who ready fi move Jamaica forward. Come connect with people who are serious about growth. Come talk business. Come explore trade opportunities. Come meet new partners. Come celebrate Jamaican excellence on a global stage. Reach Jamaica! Reach Jamaica! Reach Jamaica! Yuh hear it? Jamaica a call, and we affi answer loud and proud! Mark di dates: 14th to 18th June. Book yuh spot, pack yuh bags, bring yuh business cards, bring yuh ideas, bring yuh energy and make sure yuh deh deh! From di culture to di commerce, from di patois to di power moves, from di vibes to di vision this is where Jamaican pride meets real opportunity. Jamaica to di world! Business to di world! Trade to di world! Mek we come together, build together, and rise together. Register now. Don’t wait. Reach Jamaica! @mfaftja @kaminajsmith @vernon_patrick @marcushumphreycatering @abigail.rhoden @rickii_icilda @natpeat @khorihyde RIP #alisonwilson @khadeeniam

Jamaicans Inspired was proud to support the recent Global Jamaica Diaspora Council engagement in Manchester yesterday, led by Northern Representative Mr. Marcus Humphrey, @marcushumphreycatering alongside the newly appointed Northern UK Representative Reccarnei Phillipson @rickii_icilda both of whom are valued members of the Jamaicans Inspired network. The event brought together by Mr Humphrey, included a stellar line up of Diaspora leaders Councillor Ivis Williams of the London Borough of Greenwhich, Nathaniel Peat, @natpeat former Global Jamaica Diaspora Council Representative for the UK South, multi-entrepreneur and advisor at @lloydsbankinggroup Lloyds Banking Group, His Excellency Alexander Williams, High Commissioner for Jamaica, @jhclondon and the President of the Jamaica Society in Manchester. It was a truly uplifting and meaningful gathering, made even more special by the excellent food and hospitality provided by Mr. Humphrey’s catering services. As a first Spring Engagement event, it marked the beginning of what we hope will be many more powerful and purposeful diaspora gatherings across the United Kingdom. Jamaicans Inspired is proud to stand behind and support the work of the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council @mfaftja not only because many of its representatives are members of our network, but because they are part of the wider Jamaican diaspora family. We remain committed to helping mobilise, connect and empower as many people as possible in support of Jamaica, Jamaicans overseas, and the continued growth of our global community. We look forward to the next gathering, which we hope will take place in the South of the United Kingdom, working alongside the Southern Representatives, Abigail and Patrick. @vernon_patrick @abigail.rhoden This Manchester engagement was more than an event it was a statement of unity, leadership, culture and commitment to the future of the Jamaican diaspora.

Global Jamaica Diaspora Council representatives for the United Kingdom stand alongside former Council representative Nathaniel Peat, recognising his six years of dedicated service on the Council and his contribution to carrying the UK Diaspora forward. Following the resignation of Amani Simpson, Nathaniel Peat continued to serve and support the UK Diaspora community, working alongside Shamara Fletcher to help maintain stability, representation, and connection. Now, we power up and stand behind the new UK representatives North Youth member Reccarnei, Abigale South Member, Marcus, North senior and Patrick South Senior as they take the lead towards this year’s 11th Jamaica Diaspora Conference. Their work also connects to the wider vision of Jamaica’s National Diaspora Policy, strengthening engagement, partnership, and collaboration between Jamaica and its global Diaspora. Get on board with the journey. It’s about unity, service, progress, policy, and Jamaica. @mfaftja @natpeat @jhclondon @vernon_patrick @abigail.rhoden @rickii_icilda @marcushumphreycatering

What a fantastic fundraising night for ACCI (African Caribbean Community Initiative). Not only did everyone have a wonderful time, but the evening carried deep symbolic meaning. A number of races were dedicated to former staff members, service users, and carers who are no longer with us a powerful reminder of the lives, relationships, and legacies that shape our work. I was particularly moved by the Apprentice Handicap Stakes (Class 6), held in remembrance of Dr Aggrey Burke. A truly fitting tribute to a remarkable individual whose commitment to community, justice, and mental health continues to inspire so many. Events like this remind us that fundraising is about more than raising vital resources it is also about honouring lives, strengthening community, and remembering why the work matters. My thanks and respect to everyone involved in making the night so meaningful. #ACCI #BlackMentalHealth #MentalHealthCharity #Fundraising #Remembrance

Rise Up Jamaica Gala Honoured to speak at the Rise Up Jamaica Gala at The Willows, Hainault (East London) my first public engagement as UK South Representative for the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council (GJDC). An incredible evening with over £14,000 raised to support relief efforts in Jamaica 👏🏾 The diaspora continues to show up but we must now capture, coordinate and strengthen our impact. That’s why I’m launching a Diaspora Contribution Survey 👇🏾 👉 /r/N6GNDVM If you or your organisation has supported Jamaica please take 1 minute to take part and share. 🙏🏾 Big thank you to: Beverley & Doreen (BBJ Management) Support from Leroy Logan Hosts: Tessa Sanderson CBE & Shaun Wallace Great connecting with: @dawnbutlermp @levirootsmusic @kira.mckenzie and special thanks to Karl Murray for leading the survey design & analysis. 📊 Findings coming May 📍 Full report: Diaspora Conference, Montego Bay (14–18 June) Together we rise

I’m pleased to share my featured essay, “The Doors of Perception – Carved Doors and the Indian Ocean Slave Trade,” published in SeaVoice’s East Africa special edition. For diasporic communities, carved doors are more than heritage objects. They are repositories of memory—holding stories of movement, loss, survival, and return across the Indian Ocean world. Where written archives are incomplete or absent, these doors carry history through pattern, craft, and everyday encounter. This essay reflects on carved doors as thresholds shaped by enslavement, trade, and migration—and as material witnesses to how memory travels across generations and geographies. The work also draws on journeys I made along the East African and Omani coast between 2008–2010, following my selection as a Clore Leadership Fellow. Those encounters continue to shape how I think about heritage, diaspora, and lived history. 🔗 Read the volume: /volumes/east-africa #Diaspora #Memory #IntangibleHeritage #EastAfrica #IndianOcean #CulturalMemory #LivingArchives #HeritageAndHistory #SeaVoice #MaterialCulture

Please find my speech at Recent Shine a Light organised by The National Mikey Powell Memorial Family Fund (NMPMFF) worked in close partnership with INQUEST and the Family Reference Group held in Lozells, Birmingham on 31st January 2026. Families from the West Midlands were invited to attend the private ceremony. Good evening everyone, It is an honour to stand here tonight at the Shine a Light event as Chair of the Clinton Memorial Committee, alongside Kris, Clinton’s nephew, who was born just a few years after Clinton’s passing. Tonight is a powerful moment not only of remembrance but of unity, healing, and continued purpose. The Shine a Light initiative is about lifting up the stories, the legacies, and the lives of those we have lost. In Clinton’s case, his life touched so many. His presence remains with us through his family, through the values he lived by, and through the community who continues to keep his memory alive. As we gather here in Birmingham, we are reminded that remembrance is not passive. It is an active commitment to carry forward the light of those who are no longer with us. Clinton’s light continues to guide this committee’s work, and events like this affirm the importance of building a compassionate network of support for families navigating grief, loss, and the painful silences that often follow tragedy. I want to acknowledge Kristian Sinckler (nephew)in particular. Though he never had the chance to know his uncle in life, he carries Clinton’s legacy with dignity, strength, and purpose. Kris represents the continuation of his family’s story the next chapter of hope, resilience, and justice. Standing with you today, Kris, reminds us that our remembrance reaches across generations. The Clinton Memorial Committee is committed to ensuring that families like Clinton’s never have to walk this journey alone. Through education, advocacy, and community outreach, we aim to shine a light into spaces where too often there is darkness, and to help ensure that every family receives the recognition and support they deserve. Tonight, as candles glow and stories are shared, let us reinforce our collective commitment to honour those we have lost, to