She’d said it a few times over the years: she just wanted to go to a dance again, like she used to when she was younger with my dad. Somewhere she could dress up, go out and enjoy the music she loves from her youth.
When I looked for options across South London, I found daytime activities but struggled to find the kind of dance she was describing. So I decided to create one.
Golden Memories isn’t about care, welfare or simply passing the time. It’s about the pleasure of going somewhere, recognising a song, sharing a story and feeling part of what’s happening around you.
The music of the 1950s, 60s and 70s has travelled through generations. It can take us back to particular people, places and moments. It can also start a conversation with someone we’ve only just met.
That is what we want the afternoon and evening to feel like: lively, welcoming and full of opportunities to join in. There may be dancing, quizzes, singalongs and live entertainment, but no one has to perform or participate to belong.
An invitation means little if someone can’t get there, feel comfortable or get home safely.
That is why we are thinking about accessibility, companions, volunteer welcomes and transport as part of the event, rather than as afterthoughts.
Older residents are at the heart of Golden Memories, but the celebration is for our wider community. Bringing different generations together creates opportunities to share music, stories and experiences, while priority for places remains with Lambeth residents aged 65 and over.
In our community, for our community
Golden Memories is about celebrating the people, music and memories that connect us. It’s also an opportunity to listen, learn and shape what we create together in the future.
According to Lambeth Council, 39% of residents aged 65 and over were living alone in 2021, compared with 32% across London and 31% across England.
Living alone doesn’t necessarily mean feeling lonely. But having opportunities to meet people, enjoy activities and feel connected to the community matters.
Golden Memories isn’t going to solve loneliness with one event, nor is that its purpose. It’s about creating something enjoyable to look forward to, an opportunity to go out, meet people and celebrate together.
And those things matter.
As our population ages and daily life moves increasingly online, genuine social connection is becoming harder to find.
We want to create an evening that offers connection, belonging and something genuinely enjoyable to look forward to. A vibrant alternative to conversations focused only on care, welfare or passing the time.
Connection
Somewhere to meet, chat and enjoy being together.
Outreach
A way to take part that does not depend on being online.
Respect & Inclusion
An occasion that feels genuinely meant for older residents.
Removing Barriers
Practical attention to access, support and the journey home.
Golden Memories was created by Sonia Soowambar and is produced by We’re Good CIC
supporting community participation and helping remove barriers to attendance.
Sonia is also the Founder and Operational Director of We’re Good CIC, a Brixton-based community organisation.
