Support from the University includes headline sponsorship of two stages: the main Windrush Stage located at St Pauls Learning Centre and the World Carnival Stage in Portland Square.
As part of the partnership, the University’s Procurement Manager and BAME Staff Advisory Group Chair, Rebecca Scott, has been invited to be one of three judges of the Carnival procession which kicks off at 12noon.
As part of the procession, as many as 12 schools will perform choreographed pieces in the hope to win one of three categories: Best Dance, Best Costume and Best Interpretation of the Carnival Theme, which this year is ‘Unity’.
The University of Bristol, which is keen to encourage links with Bristol’s BAME communities and to promote long term success and sustainability of emerging entrepreneurs, will also be covering the costs of the stalls of five local groups and young enterprises at Carnival.
Beneficiaries of these grants include Sammy’s Lunchtime pop-up club - a local elders group which meets weekly to reminisce, share stores, cook food and play dominoes – and The Lion of Judah, led by respected Rastafarian leader Ras B, who will be selling cultural merchandise and promoting the Rastafarian way of life.
Amari Cole, a young fashion entrepreneur, and Adrian Stone, who featured on a BBC programme to trace his roots and set up a business to help others do the same, have also received funding from the University to have a presence at Carnival.
Staff from the University will also be aiding Tenaya’s cake stall, which will be based at the Malcolm X Community Centre, by giving out their cakes and supporting their ambition to be registered as a food trader for 2019.
Commenting on the partnership, Chair of St Pauls Carnival CIC, Marti Burgess said: “We’re pleased to be working with the university team; their support is invaluable to ensure the future legacy of the Carnival as a free family event for everyone to enjoy for years to come.
“It’s great to see The University of Bristol getting more involved in this event. Long established institutions need to ensure they are relevant to the black community. Building visible relationships with the St Pauls Carnival like this is vital to encourage homegrown black young people to view the University of Bristol as a place to aspire to go.”
Professor Nishan Canagarajah, the University's Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research and Enterprise and Chair of the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Steering Group, said: “The University of Bristol is delighted to sponsor the carnival on its very special 50th anniversary.
“The theme for this year’s event is unity which very much reflects the University’s current outlook, and where better to strengthen existing partnerships, form new relationships and celebrate our city’s diverse and rich culture than the famous St Pauls Carnival.
“Saturday promises to be a fantastic day. We’re particularly looking forward to joining Lord Mayor of Bristol, Cllr Cleo Lake and Deputy Mayor, Cllr Asher Craig in judging the procession.
“On behalf of the University, I cannot wait to be part of the event and hope everyone attending has a brilliant time.”