‘In Living Memory: Archiving, learning and mobilising against racism in East London’ is a collaborative project between Rich Mix and Queen Mary University of London to document how East London communities have organised against racism and fascism across generations.

We’re seeking young researchers who want to learn the tools and techniques of oral history collection and curation while helping to build an active community archive.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

  • Collect oral histories from multi-generational activists and community members
  • Document material cultures through pop-up memory events at Rich Mix and across East London
  • Co-curate a digital archive and exhibition showcasing local struggles, resistance and connection
  • Work alongside grassroots collectives and community organisations
  • Develop archiving skills including interview techniques, curation, and community engagement

WHAT YOU’LL GAIN

  • Hands-on experience in community-based research and archiving
  • Training in oral history methodologies
  • Collaborative work with established community organisations
  • Contribution to a publicly accessible community archive
  • The opportunity to amplify voices and stories that matter

PROJECT TIMELINE

December 2025 – July 2026 approx.

  • Paid hourly rate (£13 p/h) for oral histories and curation training.
  • Oral histories training (Jan-Feb 26). The key dates you’ll need to commit to:
  • Wed 28 Jan 2-5pm: The Politics of Anti-Racism and Oral Histories with Dr Adam Elliot- Cooper
  • Wed 4 Feb 2-5pm: Visiting and Reading the London Met Archives with Dr Clive Gabay
  • Mon 23 Feb 10.30am-12.30pm: Visiting and Reading the Tower Hamlets Archive with Dr Layli Uddin
  • Archiving workshops with community members (Jan-Apr)
  • Pop-up memory events at Rich Mix and community venues (Jan-Apr)
  • Archive curation and exhibition development (Jan-Apr)
  • Public events and exhibition launch (Apr-Jul)

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

QMUL students or alumni and/or anyone that lives in or has a connection to East London and is interested in social justice, community organising, history, politics, cultural studies, or creative practice.

No prior archiving experience is necessary – just curiosity, commitment, and care for community stories centred on anti-racism.

To Apply: Submit a short covering letter (max 1 page) or record a brief video (up to 4 minutes) telling us why you want to get involved and what you hope to bring to this project. Please send your submissions to recruitment@richmix.org.uk.

You will also need to complete our Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form. This information will be kept confidential and will not be shared with the hiring panel.

Closing date: We will be contacting people on a rolling basis, so early submissions are encouraged.

 

THIS PROJECT IS SUPPORTED BY AND DELIVERED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH