RIANNA PHILLIPS TELLS THE STORIES OF HER ELDERS

Stories from Elders is an intergenerational project that aims to unite generations through storytelling.

The ‘Stories from Elders’ project was inspired by conversations with Rianna Phillips’ grandma about her life since immigrating to London from Jamaica in the 1950’s.

“There is such a rich and diverse knowledge buried in the minds of the elder community that upcoming generations can learn so much from.”

The Stories from Elders website has provided a space to showcase stories from Caribbean and African ‘elders’ in London. Through various styled illustrations and words from the elders themselves, each story has its own message for current and future generations.

“The ultimate goal is to unite generations by creating connections through storytelling. Interactions will not only be impactful for older generations but younger generations too.”

The expansion of this project includes developing a physical board game that can be used for family game nights or as an educational tool. It will feature Elders stories as well as historical, geographical and cultural information about Africa and the Caribbean. It acts as a fun method to educate descendants on their African and Caribbean heritage through play.

This project allowed me to connect to my own Caribbean identity as I interviewed elders and developed new relationships.”

Gained a greater appreciation for the elder generation, Rianna heard stories of struggles immigrating to and living in London and the joys of “a simpler time,” growing up on sun-soaked lands, filled with fun and adventures.

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DPS—SIP—EXPO—2023 // DPS self-initiated projects (SIPs) have been an opportunity for UAL LCC London DPS students to express themselves via their personal projects and wider creative endeavours over the course of their DPS year.