Why Sylvia’s Big Jubilee Lunch will be a global party

Sylvia, 72, was one of 10 community organisers who joined the comedian and broadcaster Mel Giedroyc at the launch of The Big Jubilee Lunch. The royal-themed edition of the annual Big Lunch – an event supported by National Lottery players – will see people come together to share food and get to know each other at events right across the country between 2nd-5th June 2022.

Sylvia is no stranger to Big Lunches – she organised her first get-together in the Addiscombe area of Croydon in 2017. As the leader of the cultural diversity group at her church, she wanted her Big Lunch to celebrate the extraordinary range of nationalities living in the area.

Sylvia asked those attending to wear their homeland’s traditional attire and bring a traditional dish. She said, “We have people from about 28 countries in the area and they brought all sorts of delicious food.”

Sylvia – who was born in Sierra Leone – likes to share a traditional stew with jollof rice. But while bringing food is optional, having fun is not.

She said, “People bring whatever they can afford, whether it’s a platter of food, a packet of sausage rolls or some sweets. That’s the beauty of it. You just bring what you have, put it on the table and join in the fun.”

The Big Lunch, an annual event bringing people together to share food, have fun and get to know each other, is just one of the amazing projects made possible by National Lottery players, who raise over £30MMillion each week for good causes.

Sylvia’s Big Jubilee Lunch will be held on 5th June and features all kinds of activities and entertainment. Local Guides and Brownies are making a patchwork quilt depicting the Jubilee and a Coronation memorabilia table will showcase items commemorating 2nd June 1953, the day the Queen was crowned. There will also be a fashion parade and a DJ will play music from the residents’ home countries.

Sylvia will be assisted by some of her 3 adult children and 6 grandchildren. She said, “I love organising things and I love bringing people together. To think that has taken me all the way to Buckingham Palace is just incredible.”

Details of how to host your own Big Jubilee Lunch can be found here.

24th May 2022