Finding Your Roots – Bristol

Frequently asked questions
  1. What is the Finding Your Roots Bristol project?

The Finding Your Roots Bristol project is a unique initiative that supports a Bristol-based individual with African-Caribbean heritage to explore their ancestral history. It offers a bursary and expert guidance to help uncover their past, and includes a life-changing trip to the Caribbean to connect with their roots.

  1. Who is eligible to apply?

Adult individuals residing in the Bristol area with African-Caribbean heritage are eligible to apply. Applicants must demonstrate writing skills as part of the project is to produce a 5,000 essay. They must also demonstrate a strong desire to explore their ancestry and uncover their history.

  1. Can I apply if I don’t live in Bristol?

No, the project is specifically for an individual residing in the Bristol area with a Bristol postcode. They must have a strong connection to the city and meet the residency requirements to be eligible.

  1. Is there an age limit for those who can participate?

The successful applicant must be an adult over the age of 18. Applicants are welcome to involve family members willing to participate in the discovery and documenting their families history. 

  1. What are the obligations of the chosen individual?

The chosen Individual must agree to document their findings through a 5,000 word essay enhanced with photos, journal entries and videos, and for these to be shared to inspire other communities and wider public. 

  1.  How long will the project take?

The project must be completed by 1st October and the individual should be prepared to be involved in publicity interviews. Applicants must submit how they are going to deliver the project and their approach to researching, documenting, and travelling within this timeline. This should be outlined in the Detailed Timeline section of the application.

  1.  How many people can be part of the application?

The bursary amount is capped at £2500 plus £500 for writing. Therefore, we strongly advise that only one individual family member commit to the process to ensure the bursary can cover eligible travel and expenses for the trip abroad. No additional funding is available to support additional family members to join. However, we do encourage family members who have a strong motivation to explore their heritage to engage with the investigation process. 

  1. What is the expected outcome of participating in the project?

The chosen participant will create a lasting legacy for their family and community by documenting their ancestral journey. The successful individual must complete a 5,000 word essay which will stand as an historical record. The experience is expected to strengthen cultural ties, build a deeper understanding of heritage, and inspire others to explore their ancestry.

  1. What are the costs involved for the Individual?

The chosen Individual will have access to a bursary to go towards their research and the cost of their trip abroad. In the case that this does not cover every aspect of the trip as desired by the Individual, they should be prepared to use their own funds to make up the difference. Any additional costs will need to be covered by the successful applicant. Eligible expenses will be reimbursed with receipts and completion of the essay. All costs related to the mentorship and expert genealogical guidance are covered by the project. 

  1. How is the Individual selected?

The selection process involves reviewing the Individual’s application, including their written motivation, video submission, and plan for approaching the ancestry search. A panel of experts will choose the individual based on their commitment to uncovering and preserving their heritage.

  1. How will this project impact the community?

The project aims to inspire others in the Bristol community to explore their own heritage through sharing the individual’s journey and discoveries. The documented stories will also contribute to a richer understanding of African and Caribbean histories in the UK, and strengthen cultural connections. 

  1. How will the chosen Individual’s journey be documented?

With the support of creative mentoring and producing from Creative Connex, the Individual will document their journey through various media, including writing, photography and film. This will ensure their discoveries are preserved for future generations and can be shared with the wider community.

  1. What will the individual learn through this project?

The individual will uncover insights into their ancestry, learning about their genetic background and the powerful stories of their ancestors. They will connect to their cultural heritage and strengthen their bond with their African-Caribbean roots.

  1. Will there be travel involved?

The project includes a bursary towards a trip to a location in Africa or the Caribbean to meet family members and find library resources that are significant to the Individual’s ancestral journey. This element of the project is designed to provide a deeper, immersive experience into their heritage. 

  1. What happens after I submit my application?

Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed by a panel of experts. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for further information or interviews. The final individual will be selected based on their application’s overall merit. The closing date for applicationis 21st February and online interviews are due to take place on the 24th February and notifications, references on 27th will be made by 28th February.   

  1. Can more than one individual participate?

At this stage, the project will focus on one individual. Future opportunities may become available, depending on the success and impact of the initiative with our private sponsor.

  1. Who can I contact if I have questions about the application?

If you have any questions or need assistance completing your application, please email info@creativeconnex.com