The Context
While serving as Head of Marketing and Communications at Black Cultural Archives, I was approached by Transport for London to collaborate on a Black History edition of the London Tube map. The concept aimed to celebrate and spotlight the contributions of Black Britons across history, reframing the traditional tube map as a storytelling tool and a piece of cultural recognition.

My Role
I led the project internally at BCA, managing relationships with key external partners including TFL, London Transport Museum and the commissioned historian responsible for curating names and placements. My role involved navigating the sensitivity of historical representation, aligning with BCA’s mission and voice, and ensuring that the final map reflected a balance of public engagement and historical integrity.

I also oversaw production timelines, creative decisions, and internal sign-offs, and supported the initial stages of communications planning, including how the map would be introduced to the public and integrated into BCA’s wider brand and product catalogue.

The Journey
The project involved detailed collaboration across sectors, from transportation and museums to historical research and public education. While I left BCA before the public launch, I was responsible for delivering the map to final production and positioning it within the organisation’s communications and retail plans. The launch, held at BCA with London Mayor Sadiq Khan, brought public visibility to the project and elevated its cultural significance.

The Result
The Black History Tube Map has since become a staple product for BCA — used in education, programming, and commercial sales. It stands as both a physical artefact and a cultural statement, showcasing how creative collaboration can honour heritage while reaching wide audiences.

What I’m Proud Of
This project brought together my strengths in cultural storytelling, stakeholder management, and strategic brand development. I am proud to have helped shape a project that lives on beyond my time at BCA, adding to the organisation’s legacy and public impact.

“I am really proud that we’re able to launch Britain’s first-ever Black history Tube map, which celebrates the huge contribution Black Londoners have made, and continue to make, to our great city. This clever adaptation of TfL’s recognisable Tube map presents a wealth of information and history about the accomplishments of Black people in Britain in a fun and creative way.” – Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan 

You can purchase your own copy of the Black History Month Tube map on the Black Cultural Archives website.