Discover the untold story of the Windrush Generation's remarkable impact on Derby in "A Long Journey"!
Derby West Indian Community Association (DWICA) founded in 1955
“A Long Journey” takes you on a captivating exploration of the history of the Derby West Indian Community Association (DWICA), a beacon of hope and support for the Caribbean community in the heart of Britain. This compelling book pays homage to the unbreakable spirit of those pioneering immigrants who left their homes to start in an unfamiliar land.
As you turn each page, you’ll uncover the incredible stories of the brave men and women who shaped Derby’s thriving Caribbean community. From the challenges they faced to the triumphs they achieved, this book brings their extraordinary journey to life.
“A Long Journey” is not just a historical account, it’s a celebration of the vibrant Caribbean culture that has become an essential part of British society. Through the unwavering dedication of the Derby West Indian Community Association, the traditions, music and cuisine of the Caribbean have become a cherished part of Derby’s multicultural identity.
A Long Journey: The History of Derby West Indian Community Association
Recommended price is £40 DWICA giving 20% discounts
The cost is £32 available at Derby West Indian Community Centre
Address
Derby West Indian Community Association
Cultural/Community Centre
Carrington Street
Derby
DE1 2ND
Contact us via the form below, email (info@dwica.co.uk) or phone (01332 371529) for more information or visit the Derby West Indian Community Association in person to purchase a copy.
A Long Journey: The History of the Derby West Indian Community Association (DWICA)
The main purpose of this book is to reflect, commemorate and chronicle the contribution of Britain’s pioneering Windrush Generation, particularly those that settled in Derby. It demonstrates the vitality of the Caribbean community and their social, cultural and economic value to the city. It also charts the arrival and challenges faced by those who migrated from the Caribbean.
This book charts the work of the Association and the work of the many people committed to the Caribbean heritage community and to the celebration of Black culture. It is an informative and unique resource for schools and also the general reader, as well as a source for those interested in the many aspects of Britain’s multicultural society.
Here are couple of topics you will find in the book below:
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How the Derby West Indian Community Association became the cornerstone of Derby’s Caribbean community.
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The enduring legacy of the Windrush Generation in Derby.
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A fascinating look into the history of the Derby Caribbean Carnival.
Where to get the book
Vacancies
Derby West Indian Community Association (DWICA) is looking for a Project Officer to support our “Even Stronger Together” Project, which aims to provide mental health support and positive activities for children and young people in Derby.
Derby Caribbean Carnival Press Release
DERBY CARIBBEAN CARNIVAL TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE FOR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED EVENT ON JULY 21st, 2024
Derby, UK – 16th May 2024 – The vibrant beats and colourful costumes of the Derby Caribbean Carnival are set to return to the streets of Derby on July 21st, 2024, promising an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean culture and community spirit.
Hosted by the Derby West Indian Community Association (DWICA) and proudly supported by the Arts Council England, the Derby Caribbean Carnival is a cornerstone event for the local community, showcasing the rich tapestry of Caribbean heritage while fostering unity and togetherness among residents of all backgrounds.
As a proud member of the East Midland Caribbean Carnival Arts Network (EMCCAN), the Derby
Caribbean Carnival stands as a testament to the power of cultural exchange and collaboration. Through lively parades, dazzling performances, and mouthwatering cuisine, the carnival offers a platform for artists, performers, and community members to come together and celebrate diversity in all its forms.
“We are thrilled to once again invite the community to join us for a day of music, dance, and cultural celebration,” said George Mighty, Chairman of DWICA. “The Derby Caribbean Carnival is not just an event; it’s a reflection of our community’s resilience, creativity, and boundless spirit.”
In addition to celebrating Caribbean culture, the Derby Caribbean Carnival also presents an exciting opportunity for local businesses to show their support and get involved. Sponsorship opportunities are available, offering businesses a chance to align themselves with one of Derby’s most beloved and impactful events. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, interested parties are encouraged to contact – info@dwica.co.uk
Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of the Derby Caribbean Carnival. Tickets are now available for purchase, offering attendees access to a day filled with music, dance, and unforgettable memories.
To purchase tickets please click this link, and for more information on the carnival visit: www.dwica.co.uk/carnival/.
Join us as we come together to celebrate culture, community, and the vibrant spirit of Derby at the Derby Caribbean Carnival!
About Derby West Indian Community Association (DWICA)
DWICA is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting Caribbean culture and heritage in Derby and beyond. Through events, workshops, and community initiatives, DWICA strives to celebrate diversity and foster understanding among all members of the community.
Become a member
The Derby West Indian Community Association is a membership organisation and an individual aged 18 or over can become a member.
Members’ subscription fees become payable from the 1st of April each year. Once an individual has been a member for a period of six months they are then entitled to vote at the Annual General Meeting and are also able to serve on the Management Committee. An additional benefit to members is that they receive a 20% reduction in hiring costs when they make a booking.
The voluntary Management Committee, comprising of six elected Officers and 14 Committee members, are elected by the membership at the Annual General Meeting. The Management Committee is responsible for all issues affecting the day to day running of the Association, including staffing and the Social Club.
Management Committee Meetings are held in the Community Centre the third Friday of every month at 7:00pm, except for the months of August and December.
If you would like to become a member of the Association, then do not hesitate to contact us and you can be provided with more information.
Volunteer
Volunteering is at the heart of what we do at the Derby West Indian Community Association (DWICA). We rely on the dedication and support of volunteers to effectively serve our community.
If you have time to spare and a skill that could help us support and improve our community, we would be delighted to have you volunteer with us. Whether you can help by manning the centre or contributing your skills in other ways, we welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and experiences.
Please contact us to learn more about current opportunities and how you can get involved in making a positive impact in Derby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Carnival Information
From 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Mas’ workshop @ cathedral Green DE1 3QE
1.00pm formal carnival procession line up and start of troupe procession.
Family fun day opens from 1.00pm till 9.00pm at Osmaston Park DE23 9HY
Osmaston Park gates open at 1.00 pm and close at 9.00pm.
The carnival parade starts at 1.00 pm (from the city centre).
Last entry to the carnival site is at 8.00pm
On Osmaston Park there will be a range of entertainment suitable for everyone. Live stage music showcase with international headline act(s). Carnival troupe dance performances (dance off competition), Steel Bands, and support acts Sound system zone UK leading sounds with popular DJ’s (if possible international sound systems / DJ(s) playing all genres of music to include Soca, Reggae, Afro beat, Calypso, Dancehall etc. Once the next carnival programme is confirmed Click here to download or visit DWICA website.
Derby Caribbean carnival was established in 1975 as a result of Solomon “Ricky” Walters DWICA chairman at the time.
During Covid-19 pandemic we were not able to hold the Carnival in 2020 and 2021, so we broadcasted two virtual carnivals during these years. DWICA recorded large viewing figures especially with the Beenie Man (King of Dancehall) and the Kanneh-Masons (an all-African Caribbean orchestral family) performance in 2021.
Tickets and Entry
It is £5 per person to enter the Carnival site, however under 12s are free.
It’s free to watch the Carnival troupe parade, which starts at 1.00pm from the Line up at Cathedral Green officially starts from Market Place – City Centre and takes a four (4) km route to Osmaston Park (DE23 8HY)
There is very limited designated parking at Osmaston park site before 12midday and no exit until 9pm. Better parking options to the designated official carnival car park – Rolls Royce Car Park site Victory Road.
These are available from Derby Caribbean Carnival Ticket on Gigantic for £5.00 per person.
Transportation and Parking
There is no official transport for carnival. Public and or private transport is used by the public. Local people will walk to the venue (1-2km radius)
Yes. Osmaston park – Secure parking is available £2) for the day @ The Rolls Royce car park (Victory Road) which is signposted on route to the carnival family fun day @ Osmaston Park
The procession in the Market Place / Cathedral Green, City Centre – there are a number of nationally recognised public car parks near the city centre Market Place.
Such car parks will be either cash or Contactless card payments.
Food, Drink and Amenitie
Food: There will be a wide range of Caribbean catering food stalls available for you to experience at Osmaston Park
Drinks: DWICA is the only organisation legally to provide a licensed bar on the Carnival site selling both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You cannot bring your own alcohol onto the site – your bag will be searched, and any alcohol found will be confiscated so please do not try to bring it with you!
If you are interested in having a food stall at the Carnival, please email info@dwica.co.uk
ALL Bags will be checked on entry to the Carnival site.
You can bring on site:
- Small foldable chairs (You may be asked to move if space becomes limited)
- Compact umbrellas and small sunshades for children
- Picnic blankets (You may be asked to move if space becomes limited)
- Picnic food
Please do not bring on site:
- Dogs (except registered Guide Dogs)
- Alcohol
- Glass bottles
- Cameras and photography equipment that have detachable lenses
- Knives, including kitchen knives for picnics.
- Recreational drugs and legal highs
- Bicycles
- BBQs
- Large umbrellas
- Any other items deemed to cause an obstruction.
Note: restricted items CANNOT be stored at the gate for collection later
Carnival Procession and Troupes
There are generally 300-400 troupes that attend from various cities nationally e.g. from Nottingham, Leicester, Northampton, Leeds, Preston, Huddersfield, Luton, and London.
DWICA Troupes commonly known as Cultural Roots Carnival Troupe (CRCT). The design and make process is ongoing with draft designs and discussion to explore the making process.
By investing in young people, DWICA has seen the development of carnival costumes to the levels where Derby costumes have won local, regional, and national awards in the Caribbean carnival industry
Send an email to info@dwica.co.uk or ring 01332 371529 to discuss with the relevant DCCPG member
Media and Photography
Official photographers and videographers have been commissioned to take photographs and film at Derby Caribbean Carnival.
The photographs may be published as part of our promotional material.
Any footage may be posted on the organisation’s website as promotional material.
If you have any queries about this, please contact the DWICA via info@dwica.co.uk
Participation and Volunteer Opportunities
Please email info@dwica.co.uk or ring 01332 371529 if you think you can make a contribution to Derby Caribbean Carnival. It may be useful to share your relevant skills set and availability of time to get involved in the planning process.
DWICA is the legal body that is responsible for Derby Caribbean Carnival.
Derby Caribbean Carnival Planning Group (DCCPG) is the task group accountable to DWICA.
DCCPG has committed people who discuss and plan the event. There is an open-door policy which means anyone who wishes to contribute to the planning and delivery process of Derby Caribbean Carnival is welcome to attend meetings.
Please email info@dwica.co.uk or ring 01332 371529 if you think you can make a contribution to Derby Caribbean Carnival. It may be useful to share your relevant skills set and availability of time to get involved in the planning process.
Please email info@dwica.co.uk or ring 01332 371529 if you think you can make a contribution to Derby Caribbean Carnival. It may be useful to share your relevant skills set and availability of time to get involved in the planning process
DWICA always encourages schools’ involvement and recognise that Derby Caribbean carnival takes place during the school holidays. Some schools work with DWICA to promote the benefits through creative arts workshop sessions
Like us on Facebook (Derby Caribbean Carnival) visit DWICA website, email info@dwica.co.uk
Trade Stalls
If you are interested in having a trade, food or promotional/information stall please email info@dwica.co.uk or ring 01332 371529.
All stall holders must complete the application process and submit the required additional paperwork. All stalls must be paid for in full prior to the event to enable access on site.
Safety and Security
For security. We want everyone to be safe at Carnival and to keep it a positive, family friendly event. This means monitoring all who are seeking to enter the event. Only guide dogs are allowed on site, NO OTHER DOGS are allowed in the carnival event.
The Police actually classify this event as a ‘low risk.’ There is generally a mixture of community support officers and regular police on duty. In addition, you will see many SIA qualified security personnel on duty during the event.
Funding and Sponsorship
DWICA does not get any funding from Derby City Council since 2012 and as such the public entry fee pays for the carnival infrastructure.
DWICA receives additional funds from money from Arts Council England, stallholders, and advertisers.
DWICA underwrites all other carnival infrastructure costs which over recent years has become problematic.
Yes, approaches are made to local and large companies. A new sponsorship package detailing how and what companies can contribute to has been drafted and a final document should be ready in 2024 onwards.
This year we would like to thank our main sponsors.
- Arts Council England
- East Midlands Caribbean Carnival Arts Network (EMCCAN)
- Unite Union.
Frequently Asked Questions
Always the 3rd Weekend Sunday in July.
The next Derby Caribbean Carnival is on Sunday 21st July 2024.
Osmaston Park gates open at 1.00 pm and close at 9.00 pm. The carnival parade starts at 1:00 pm (from the City Centre). Last entry to the carnival site is at 8:00 pm.
From 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Mas’ workshop @ cathedral Green DE1 3QE
1.00pm formal carnival procession line up and start of troupe procession.
Family fun day opens from 1.00pm till 9.00pm at Osmaston Park DE23 9HY
It is £5 per person to enter the Carnival site, however under 12s are free.
It’s free to watch the Carnival troupe parade, which starts at 1.00pm from the Line up at Cathedral Green officially starts from Market Place – City Centre and takes a four (4) km route to Osmaston Park (DE23 8HY)
There is very limited designated parking at Osmaston park site before 12midday and no exit until 9pm. Better parking options to the designated official carnival car park – Rolls Royce Car Park site Victory Road.
These are available from Gigantic for £5.00 per person.
On Osmaston Park there will be a range of entertainment suitable for everyone. Live stage music showcase with international headline act(s). Carnival troupe dance performances (dance off competition), Steel Bands, and support acts Sound system zone UK leading sounds with popular DJ’s (if possible international sound systems / DJ(s) playing all genres of music to include Soca, Reggae, Afro beat, Calypso, Dancehall etc. Once the next carnival programme is confirmed Click here to download or visit DWICA website.
There is no official transport for carnival. Public and or private transport is used by the public. Local people will walk to the venue (1-2km radius)
Yes. Osmaston park – Secure parking is available £2) for the day @ The Rolls Royce car park (Victory Road) which is signposted on route to the carnival family fun day @ Osmaston Park
The procession in the Market Place / Cathedral Green, city centre – there are a number of nationally recognised public car parks near the city centre Market Place.
Such car parks will be either cash or Contactless card payments.
Food: There will be a wide range of Caribbean catering food stalls available for you to experience at Osmaston Park
Drinks: DWICA is the only organisation legally to provide a licensed bar on the Carnival site selling both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. You cannot bring your own alcohol onto the site – your bag will be searched, and any alcohol found will be confiscated so please do not try to bring it with you!
If you are interested in having a food stall at the Carnival, please email info@dwica.co.uk
ALL Bags will be checked on entry to the Carnival site.
You can bring on site:
- Small foldable chairs (You may be asked to move if space becomes limited)
- Compact umbrellas and small sunshades for children
- Picnic blankets (You may be asked to move if space becomes limited)
- Picnic food
Please do not bring on site:
- Dogs (except registered Guide Dogs)
- Alcohol
- Glass bottles
- Cameras and photography equipment that have detachable lenses
- Knives, including kitchen knives for picnics.
- Recreational drugs and legal highs
- Bicycles
- BBQs
- Large umbrellas
- Any other items deemed to cause an obstruction.
Note: restricted items CANNOT be stored at the gate for collection later
Official photographers and videographers have been commissioned to take photographs and film at Derby Caribbean Carnival.
The photographs may be published as part of our promotional material.
Any footage may be posted on the organisation’s website as promotional material.
If you have any queries about this, please contact the DWICA via info@dwica.co.uk
If you are interested in having a trade, food or promotional / information stall please email info@dwica.co.uk or ring 01332 371529.
All stall holders must complete the application process and submit the required additional paperwork. All stalls must be paid for in full prior to the event to enable access on site.
DWICA is the legal body that is responsible for Derby Caribbean Carnival. Derby Caribbean Carnival Planning Group (DCCPG) is the task group accountable to DWICA.
DCCPG has committed people who discuss and plan the event. There is an open-door policy which means anyone who wishes to contribute to the planning and delivery process of Derby Caribbean Carnival is welcome to attend meetings
There are generally 300-400 troupes that attend from various cities nationally e.g. from Nottingham, Leicester, Northampton, Leeds, Preston, Huddersfield, Luton, and London.
DWICA Troupes commonly known as Cultural Roots Carnival Troupe (CRCT). The design and make process is ongoing with draft designs and discussion to explore the making process.
By investing in young people, DWICA has seen the development of carnival costumes to the levels where Derby costumes have won local, regional, and national awards in the Caribbean carnival industry
Send an email to info@dwica.co.uk or ring 01332 371529 to discuss with the relevant DCCPG member
DWICA always encourages schools’ involvement and recognise that Derby Caribbean carnival takes place during the school holidays. Some schools work with DWICA to promote the benefits through creative arts workshop sessions
Please email info@dwica.co.uk or ring 01332 371529 if you think you can make a contribution to Derby Caribbean Carnival. It may be useful to share your relevant skills set and availability of time to get involved in the planning process.
Please email info@dwica.co.uk or ring 01332 371529 if you think you can make a contribution to Derby Caribbean Carnival. It may be useful to share your relevant skills set and availability of time to get involved in the planning process.
Please email info@dwica.co.uk or ring 01332 371529 if you think you can make a contribution to Derby Caribbean Carnival. It may be useful to share your relevant skills set and availability of time to get involved in the planning process
For security. We want everyone to be safe at Carnival and to keep it a positive, family friendly event. This means monitoring all who are seeking to enter the event. Only guide dogs are allowed on site, NO OTHER DOGS are allowed in the carnival event.
The Police actually classify this event as a ‘low risk.’ There is generally a mixture of community support officers and regular police on duty. In addition, you will see many SIA qualified security personnel on duty during the event
Like us on Facebook (Derby Caribbean Carnival) visit DWICA website, email info@dwica.co.uk
Derby Caribbean carnival was established in 1975 as a result of Solomon “Ricky” Walters DWICA chairman at the time.
During Covid-19 pandemic we were not able to hold the Carnival in 2020 and 2021, so we broadcasted two virtual carnivals during these years. DWICA recorded large viewing figures especially with the Beenie Man (King of Dancehall) and the Kanneh-Masons (an all-African Caribbean orchestral family) performance in 2021.
DWICA does not get any funding from Derby City Council since 2012 and as such the public entry fee pays for the carnival infrastructure.
DWICA receives additional funds from money from Arts Council England, stallholders, and advertisers.
DWICA underwrites all other carnival infrastructure costs which over recent years has become problematic.
Do you ask local or large companies to contribute?
Yes, approaches are made to local and large companies. A new sponsorship package detailing how and what companies can contribute to has been drafted and a final document should be ready in 2024 onwards.
This year we would like to thank our main sponsors.
- Arts Council England
- East Midlands Caribbean Carnival Arts Network (EMCCAN)
- Unite Union.
