24 May Evaluation Report Published: Soro Soke – Essex Black Diasporans Oral History Project

May 2025 – Codub Consulting Ltd is proud to announce the completion and publication of a comprehensive evaluation report for the Soro Soke – Essex Black Diasporans Oral History Project, a heritage initiative led by the Over 50s Black Men Forum CIC and supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The Soro Soke project was designed to capture, preserve, and share the personal histories of older Black diasporan men living in Essex. These stories have historically been under-represented in local archives. In partnership with the Essex Record Office and community venues such as Chelmsford Library, the project recorded fifteen in-depth oral history interviews, each recounting unique journeys of migration, adaptation, cultural heritage, and community contribution.

Independent Evaluation by Codub Consulting

Codub Consulting was commissioned to carry out an independent evaluation of the project, based on National Lottery Heritage Fund Oral History Evaluation guidance. The evaluation examined key aspects of project delivery, including:

• Interview quality and content, including narrator selection and recording practices
• Archiving and preservation, ensuring long-term public access
• Project outcomes and legacy, highlighting educational potential and community benefit
• Participant and community impact, especially among older Black men and local audiences
• Project management and risk mitigation, assessing governance, volunteer training, and delivery

The full evaluation confirms that the Soro Soke project not only achieved its core objectives but also delivered significant cultural and social impact for participants and the wider Essex community. The report highlights the strength of community partnerships, thoughtful project design, and meaningful heritage outcomes, positioning the oral history collection as a valuable long-term public resource.

“The Soro Soke project has captured a rich and nuanced record of Black diasporan experience in Essex, combining community leadership with archival rigour. We are pleased to have supported the evaluation and commend the project team’s dedication to inclusive heritage practice.”

— Amon Ezike, Lead Evaluator, Codub Consulting Ltd

Read the full evaluation report:

View the Soro Soke Evaluation Report

About the Soro Soke Project

“Soro Soke” is a Yoruba phrase meaning “Speak Up.” The project was conceived to document and celebrate the lived experiences of Black diasporans in Essex, from historical migration patterns to the everyday stories shaping local identity today. Outputs include oral history recordings, transcripts, archival metadata, and a planned digital repository to ensure long-term preservation and access.

About Codub Consulting Ltd

Codub Consulting Ltd is a UK-based strategic consultancy specialising in evaluation, heritage planning, community engagement, and social impact measurement. We support organisations to design, deliver, and evaluate programmes that are meaningful, inclusive, and sustainable.

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