Our Team

Executive Co-Directors

Our directors all have extensive experience in education, partnership working, running a business, facilitation, producing and project management. 

Gabriella Gay

Founding Member and Artistic Director

Poet Gabriella is responsible for the creative vision of Kwanzaa Collective UK and its programmes.

Anderson West

Creative Tech Director

Filmmaker Anderson merges technology and creativity, overseeing the development of innovative solutions to successfully support Kwanzaa Collective UK’s artistic initiatives. 

Alliyah Dawud

Communications Director

As director of communications, writer and journalist Alliyah manages Kwanzaa’s internal and external communications.

Danny Shaw

Musical Director

Musician Danny Shaw is responsible for all musical aspects of Kwanzaa Collective UK.

Creative Producers & Facilitators

Daby Obiechefu

Susan Adesina

Kwanzaa Collective UK Director commissioned for National Theatre play.

Part of The Odyssey – A National Theatre, Public Acts programme, performed at Fenton Town Hall’s Ballroom (30th March – 2nd April 2023). Working with writer Gabriella Gay and Stoke-on-Trent locals, we drew inspiration from The Lotus Eaters, a section of The Odyssey, to craft a production rooted in our own stories and experiences. We reimagined Odysseus’ challenges, exploring how we stay resilient and connected as a community.


This epic, nationwide Public Acts project unites hundreds of community members and professional artists, creating a powerful celebration of unity, creativity, and radical joy. Reinterpreting The Odyssey, we share a universal tale of endurance, loss, healing, and hope for today.

Film by the National Theatre.

The Lotus Eaters