In 1954, my grandfather travelled from Guyana to England, filled only with hope and determination. He knew no one here, but he carried with him a dream: to build a better life and one day marry my grandmother, whom he had left behind in Guyana.
Upon his arrival, he settled in St John’s Wood and worked tirelessly. Just two years later, he was able to send for my grandmother, and by 1956 they were married. Together, they built a life founded on love, resilience, and perseverance.
Through dedication and hard work, my grandfather achieved what few had at the time – he purchased a home in the Cricklewood area for £2,500. Remarkably, he was the first Black man to own a house on that road. To this day, that house remains in our family, a lasting symbol of his vision and determination.
His legacy is not just in bricks and mortar, but in the stories passed down through generations: stories of his work ethic, his sense of humour, his fairness, and his unflinching honesty. Until his passing at the age of 100, he embodied vitality and strength – running 21 miles a week, going to the gym until the age of 97, and even holding a four-minute plank.
More than anything, my grandfather taught us that life is for living. His words, “My religion is humanity – treat people how you want to be treated,” are a guiding principle I live by to this day.
On 25th February 2025, we said goodbye to my grandfather. Yet his legacy endures through his four children, 27 grandchildren, and the generations to come. In his honour, I share this story with pride this Black History Month, alongside the treasured photographs and letters he left behind.
Happy Black History Month.
