Championing creativity.
No limits, no barriers.

We are Be United. We want to contribute to a more inspired, united and enriched world. We are driven by the creation of the extraordinary. We transcend the ordinary, and elevate the human experience to unite people.

Let’s make history!

We remain committed to our mission to advocate, nurture and champion Black people working in the performing arts, screen and event sectors in Scotland.

Why? We believe our sectors are richer when all people are represented.

We create platforms and opportunities that empower people to define their own success.

Our Values

Equity

To create a more equitable world, society and sectors.

Empowerment

To empower ourselves and others, to be the best that we can be.

Excellence

To go above and beyond in our work.
To stand out.

Our Story

Our journey began in 2013 in Durban, South Africa where co-founders Emma and Boysie recognised an urgent need for creative outlets of expression within the community. The voices of young people eager for extra-curricular activities, yet facing a void of opportunities, was the spark that ignited Be United. 

This mission carried us to Scotland. What began as fundraising efforts to support our South African initiatives evolved rapidly as we recognised a compelling need for social integration and representation of the Black community within Scotland’s own performing arts scene. Our ethos of equity and inclusion effortlessly transcended continents. This has continued to inspire us to establish programmes that champion diversity and foster unity. 

We have grown, and in doing so, have worked with major organisations such as Edinburgh International Festival, Amazon, Fruitmarket, Sofar Sounds, Talbot Rice Gallery, Virgin and STV. We are a driving force in the evolving Scottish cultural and creative sectors, facilitating much needed change and providing access for our community to opportunities that exist in the various sectors.

Impact Numbers

Creatives employed

Audiences reached

Events produced

Workshop sessions

Programmes delivered

Organisational collaborations

Festival performances

Extras cast

Income generated into Scotland Black communities

Talent database

Testimonials

Our Team

Board

Louis Parker-Evans

Interim Chair

Fiyin Fakunle

Secretary

Zarine Manekshaw

Treasurer

Lara Banjo

Trustee and Non-Executive Director for Be United Trading Ltd

Dr Thelma Okey-Adibe

Trustee

Ben Chinchen

Trustee

Olubukola Popoola

Trustee

Boysie Gumede

Co-Founder & Honorary Board Member

Operations

Emma Sithole

Executive Director & Co-Founder

Monika Navickaitė

Media & Comms Coordinator

Collin Hills

Creative Director

Kassana Garraway

Screens Business Development Manager

Sharon Thomas

Programme Coordinator

Funders

Accreditations and Memberships

Annual Reports

Annual Report 20/21

Annual Report 21/22

Annual Report 22/23

Annual Report 23/24

Research Reports

Tiny Changes

Moving Forward

Fair Work Statement

Be United is proud to affirm our commitment to Fair Work principles in alignment with the Scottish Government’s Fair Work First criteria. We are a registered living wage employer since June 2021 and pledge to continue to uphold the real Living Wage and ensure effective voice conditions for our employees.

This commitment is jointly agreed upon by Be United and our workforce, ensuring fair and inclusive practices at all levels.