The Blackhouse Round-Up for 2024
Published on December 3, 2024 by The Blackhouse
As 2024 comes to a close, it's been a whirlwind for The Blackhouse, filled with both highs and profound challenges.
We were thrilled to make it to the finals of the NZ Radio and Podcast Awards, a major milestone that took us by surprise! Liya, experienced a bit of imposter syndrome and only realized the significance of the national recognition on the night of the awards. To her amazement, the introduction to The Blackhouse show—featuring her own voice—was used during the introduction to the awards night. For someone who’s always felt her voice was "made for radio," it was a touching moment of affirmation.
Funding remains one of our toughest challenges. Like many in the creative space, we’ve been navigating tight resources and unexpected setbacks, including the crash of our only laptop. Despite this, we’ve kept the project alive with borrowed equipment, mobile phones, and a healthy dose of ingenuity. For those waiting on YouTube videos, we deeply appreciate your patience; editing from a phone is no small feat. We’re working towards securing a fit-for-purpose laptop for 2025 to better serve the project.
In the midst of these efforts, our Wellington community faced an unimaginable tragedy with the passing of Luke Smith. This loss struck deeply, and The Blackhouse took on the vital role as part of a coordinating team for Luke's memorial organising the venue free of cost, and setting up a Givealittle campaign to support his family. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of donors, the campaign raised $25,771, which, minus GiveALittle fees, will go entirely to Luke’s parents. Though the goal wasn’t fully met, the love and support shown were extraordinary, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed.
On a brighter note, we’ve amplified the voices of Wellington’s African diaspora youth by highlighting the *Protect the Youth* petition led by VADSA students. Keeping this vital initiative in the public eye remains a key focus for the Blackhouse as well.
We closed out the year with a special event: Warren Duncan’s *The Jazz Estate* album release White Party. Warren, a renowned South African musician and DJ, entrusted The Blackhouse to help organize an intimate afternoon event before his Australian tour. With the support of talented local Amapiano DJs, families and music lovers gathered at the Garden Hotel to celebrate. The venue provided a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with themed cocktails and a family-friendly vibe. It may have been a smaller crowd, but the energy was wonderful, and those who attended left with smiles and fond memories.
While the past few months have been tough, they’ve also been a testament to the strength and resilience of our community and our Blackhouse contributors. As we step into the holiday season, we are all ready for a well-deserved break and eager to return with fresh energy in 2025.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all. Please stay safe, look out for your loved ones, and let’s continue to support each other in the year ahead. 🌟
We were thrilled to make it to the finals of the NZ Radio and Podcast Awards, a major milestone that took us by surprise! Liya, experienced a bit of imposter syndrome and only realized the significance of the national recognition on the night of the awards. To her amazement, the introduction to The Blackhouse show—featuring her own voice—was used during the introduction to the awards night. For someone who’s always felt her voice was "made for radio," it was a touching moment of affirmation.
Funding remains one of our toughest challenges. Like many in the creative space, we’ve been navigating tight resources and unexpected setbacks, including the crash of our only laptop. Despite this, we’ve kept the project alive with borrowed equipment, mobile phones, and a healthy dose of ingenuity. For those waiting on YouTube videos, we deeply appreciate your patience; editing from a phone is no small feat. We’re working towards securing a fit-for-purpose laptop for 2025 to better serve the project.
In the midst of these efforts, our Wellington community faced an unimaginable tragedy with the passing of Luke Smith. This loss struck deeply, and The Blackhouse took on the vital role as part of a coordinating team for Luke's memorial organising the venue free of cost, and setting up a Givealittle campaign to support his family. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of donors, the campaign raised $25,771, which, minus GiveALittle fees, will go entirely to Luke’s parents. Though the goal wasn’t fully met, the love and support shown were extraordinary, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed.
On a brighter note, we’ve amplified the voices of Wellington’s African diaspora youth by highlighting the *Protect the Youth* petition led by VADSA students. Keeping this vital initiative in the public eye remains a key focus for the Blackhouse as well.
We closed out the year with a special event: Warren Duncan’s *The Jazz Estate* album release White Party. Warren, a renowned South African musician and DJ, entrusted The Blackhouse to help organize an intimate afternoon event before his Australian tour. With the support of talented local Amapiano DJs, families and music lovers gathered at the Garden Hotel to celebrate. The venue provided a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with themed cocktails and a family-friendly vibe. It may have been a smaller crowd, but the energy was wonderful, and those who attended left with smiles and fond memories.
While the past few months have been tough, they’ve also been a testament to the strength and resilience of our community and our Blackhouse contributors. As we step into the holiday season, we are all ready for a well-deserved break and eager to return with fresh energy in 2025.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all. Please stay safe, look out for your loved ones, and let’s continue to support each other in the year ahead. 🌟