Damilola Taylor Trust: Birthday Celebration

This event will celebrate Damilola Taylor's 36th birthday, which would have been on December 7th, had he not suffered a fatal?gang attack?25 years earlier, on November 27th? 2000. We will also honour the incredible work of his father, Richard Taylor. Richard tirelessly worked to create safer communities for young people and prevent gang involvement through the DTT, which he founded in May 2001, until his passing in April 2024. The evening will feature songs, spoken word performances, in addition to testimonies and a book reading from individuals who connect with Damilola?s story and Richard?s legacy. We will also highlight the BAFTA-winning programme, "Damilola Our Loved Boy."? We have a lineup that includes. Leee John, Kojo The Comedian and Terrell The Artist.? LEE JOHN: Right through from the conception to the launch of Imagination in the early 80?s, spanning nearly four decades in the music industry, LEEE JOHN? continues to captivate audiences with his spectacular live shows, generating within his travels a loyal globally strong fan base spanning from many Intl countries including, Europe, Africa, South America and Asia, as well as number of the French speaking territories with their ongoing love of his music. Even today the story of IMAGINATION?s music continues in the form of a long list of samples, remixes and adaptations by major contemporary stars. Such as the The Pharcyde, Dimitri from Paris and Destiny?s Child (Complete with Beyonc?) sampled ?Just An Illusion? on their 1998 self-titled debut album produced by Wyclef Jean, with Lee himself featured on DJ Dero?s 2005 rendition of the song, which was widely played in clubs. Also let?s not forget America superstar Maria Carey recorded?version of ?Illusion? on her top ten single ?Get Your Number?.?Furthermore, we see ?Flashback? being sampled by Boards of Canada, ?Music & Lights? by Tiger & Woods and many more. KOJO THE COMEDIAN: Kojo Anim has fast become one of the funniest talents to come out of the UK comedy circuit. As the oldest of 5 siblings Kojo grew up in foster care in the borough of Hackney in East London from the age of 5. While his first love was always football, he started using his humour to make people laugh. Kojo has since opened up for comedy royalty such as Chris Rock, Kevin Hart at Wembley Arena and Dave Chappelle at the Royal Albert Hall. In 2018 Kojo became a father for the first time to his son Roman-Kingsley. After being an open act for major comedy talent, it?s now time for Kojo to stand alone and cement his own comedy legacy. Kojo was on series 13 of global tv talent show, Britain?s Got Talent in 2019 and received Simon Cowell?s prestigious Golden Buzzer which has sent him to the live semi finals, then he want on to the grand finals and was a the top 4 finalist. His first audition has currently received over 100 million views worldwide. Kojo is currently developing a new exciting tv sitcom based on his childhood in care, plus many other tv and film projects. With an autobiography already written, 2025 promises to be an exciting year. TERRELL THE ARTIST ? Terrell Lewis is a multifaceted artist who has made a significant impact in the realms of spoken word, workshop facilitation and voiceover acting. As an award-winning spoken word artist Terrell has garnered recognition for his ability to craft mesmerising and impactful performances. His words flow effortlessly painting vivid pictures and evoking deep emotions within his audiences.? With a voice that is both captivating and versatile, he has lent his talents to a wide range of projects including corporate events, commercials, documentaries, radio and animated films. His ability to connect with diverse audiences through his powerful performances is nothing short of exceptional leaving a lasting impact on listeners.