RDF Film Screening Q&A 22nd October 2019

RDF after-screening Q&A at The Lexi

Roger Diamond interviewed Olapeju Coker and Professor Titus for the Q&A

Olapeju Coker said it was often common practice for unregistered private carers in country towns in the UK to adopt or foster Nigerian and other African children since the early 60s. This fictional film 'The Last Tree' was clearly a recounting of various true events. 

She said that the mother featured was no doubt struggling with many issues, including trying to find work and a flat to raise her child in the UK... "It was unfortunate that the area was so deprived that her hard-earned income still was not enough for their basic needs".

Olapeju mentioned that Roger was the founder of both RDF and Real Action - locally based charities that are performing very important work in London areas, to address many of the issues raised. She said that her late husband was a co-founder of literacy charity Real Action. They used to help many struggling parents who came to their home for advice or help. Olapeju (who is also trained to a high level in cookery and fashion design) has vast experience as a mental health & community outreach worker. She is an RDF Consultant and will be helping RDF parenting workshops in the future.

Professor Titus Olaniyi said the issues raised in the film about the behaviour of young people and frequent aggression from youth gangs was not just an issue in the UK. Prof Titus said it was not just knives but also guns, that were being used more than ever before, by disaffected youths these days. He said it was very much a universal issue in many countries and solutions need to be found ASAP. The professor will be speaking about these and other pertinent issues for RDF in the future.

The Lexi Cinema said it was an important topic and they enjoyed hosting this event for RDF. Many delighted followers of RDF attended - along with many members of the public. According to the feedback, it seems they all enjoyed the film and Q&A very much. Many (on their way out) said they hoped RDF organised more topical film screenings and said they would definitely attend.