The charity Ensemble Manchester is grateful to have received a grant of £29,900 from the Lottery Heritage Fund. The project, made possible thanks to National Lottery players, will explore the culture of Manchester residents with a Central African background, particularly Cameroon. 
Over a 12-month period young people growing up in Manchester will connect with their heritage, research family history, and focus on unity, sharing with the people of Manchester, particularly through a love of football.
The project ‘kicks off’ with a celebration of the Cameroon National Day. On Saturday 19 May, 12pm – 4pm the Victoria Mill Community Centre will open for an afternoon of family fun. Young people of the Cameroonian Community will be wearing the colours of the national football team to take part in friendly competitions at Park view School Football Pitch. There will be an exhibition on former Glories of Cameroonian Football during 1982 and 1990 FIFA World Cup, along with various activities, e.g. face painting, bouncy castle, barbeque and creative writing in French and English.
Those going along will be able to learn more about the unique country of Cameroon. Anyone wanting to volunteer fundraises or sponsor the project can find out how.
The Cameroon National Day has been celebrated on 20 May each since 1972 when both territories of the country – English and French – became one nation. Football has continued to play a unifying role in a nation once divided.
Ines Lewe, Ensemble Chair and young persons’ manager says, “We are delighted that the Lottery Heritage Fund has provided us with this opportunity to expand on what we offer through our French Supplementary School. We plan to capture the imagination of various sectors in the City through delivery of an innovative project from which other communities can benefit.”
Based at Victoria Mill Community Centre in Miles Platting, Ensemble Manchester (Charity 1165797) works alongside statutory and voluntary organisations to provide French classes and extra-curricular activities for young people in school and in the community.
For further information, visit: www.ensemblemanchester.org.uk or contact Melanie Ngangen on 0744 798 0526.