Butetown, Cardiff
Butetown, sometimes known as Tiger Bay, has long been shaped by people arriving from around the world. By the early 20th century, people from more than 50 countries had made the area their home, creating one of the UK’s earliest multicultural communities.
Wales REACH worked with Taff Housing Association and people connected with Red Sea House to explore Butetown’s history, identity and community.
Elders shared memories of the merchant navy and a changing Cardiff Docks. Young people explored British Somali history and their own identities through film and clothing design. Women shared recipes and explored the journeys of food and spices, while gardening groups transformed an unused space into a garden where different generations could come together.
Much of the work grew through conversation, storytelling and sharing experiences – connecting memories of the past with the lives and identities of people who call Butetown home today.
“Wonderful work, good to see community outreach working so well. Congratulations to participants
and the facilitators”
Explore Cardiff Exhibits
CardiffWearing Our Identity
Young people from Butetown, Grangetown and Splott explored how clothing can express who we are and where we come from
CardiffRoot, Rise, Reach
Working with Yaina from gardening charity Perennial, elders, women and young people helped design the garden together
CardiffOur Voices
Young people from Butetown worked together to create this short film exploring what identity means to them
CardiffTaste the World
More than a collection of recipes, Taste the World celebrates the friendships, confidence and sense of belonging that grew in the kitchen
CardiffUntold Stories
Young people from Butetown travelled to London to watch Untold Stories Part 2, a documentary exploring the experiences of the Somali community in Tower Hamlets