We build bridges across cultures, one book at a time, celebrating the incredible talent of authors, storytellers, illustrators, and creatives from within the United Kingdom, to the world. Our rich tapestry is of dual and mixed heritages: Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Caribbean Islands.
We organize vibrant storytelling sessions and interactive workshops—both online and in person—that spark imagination and encourage families to bond through shared experiences. These events are tailored to engage young minds and inspire creativity across generations.
CALF-Event’s Online celebration of Black History Month is a cornerstone of the initiative, weaving stories that resonate with families raising children in the diaspora, nurturing a thriving young readership with a global perspective.
In 2023, CALF-Events took a bold step forward by hosting its first in-person event at Chelmsford Museum in Essex. Supported by Arts Council England and Chelmsford Museum, this landmark event on 26th October 2023 brought together families, authors, and readers to celebrate the power of storytelling, with themes that beautifully intertwined heritage and culture.
In 2024, CALF-Events ambitiously expanded its reach, funded by Arts Council England, Chelmsford Museum and Essex Cultural Diversity Project, by adding two more cities to its program, bringing its offerings to the communities of Manchester Museum, Manchester, and Signals Media Arts Centre and Red Lion Books, both in Colchester. That year, the initiative successfully hosted four events in total and was proudly invited by the Essex Book Festival to participate in its Midsummer Madness Day.
The Partnerships…
Founded by Sade Fadipe in 2021, CALF-Events emerged during the pandemic as a creative initiative to connect families through the magic of storytelling. It was born out of a desire to foster readership, inspire creativity, and provide meaningful entertainment during challenging times. Through virtual readings, storytelling sessions, and hands-on activities, CALF-Events united authors and audiences from England and beyond, creating a global community of story lovers.
Today, CALF-Events continues to thrive, growing its platform, expanding its offerings, and creating meaningful opportunities for young children and their families.
It does this by sustaining invaluable partnerships with funders, museums and cultural spaces – who all provide us with the free use of their spaces and facilities- and our local cultural organisations.
CALF-Events remains dedicated to inspiring, educating, and celebrating the universal power of stories—bringing people together in joy, connection, and shared understanding.
