Jennifer Obaseki: ‘Make sure children get to know each other’

ENDLESS think pieces and policy plans have tried and failed to tackle youth violence, but for one Canonbury community group it could be as simple as getting together.

Representing estates between Essex Road and Rosemary Gardens, the Islington Street Association is hoping to break down barriers between neighbourhoods.

The organisation’s chair, Jennifer Obaseki, told the Tribune: “My ethos is that if kids grow up playing together, they won’t then target each other when there are rivalries as they become adolescents. I just really push towards our aim which is to make sure the children get to know each other. We’ve had this isolation since Covid of people not really going out as much, and the gaming culture that kids have means they’re online a lot. We need to break it so kids feel that confidence to engage and get to know each other.”

Tomorrow (Saturday), Morton Road will host a street party including music, food, face painting and a visit from the Mayor of Islington.

There is a popular pound stall where residents are encouraged to bring coats, jeans, books and ornaments to sell onto their neighbours for just £1.

The dog show is another highlight – surprisingly so for Ms Obaseki. “I actually have a bit of a dog phobia, but when you see them they’re just the cutest thing,” she said.

“The dogs are part of the community and they make their own little friendships, as bizarre as that may sound.

“The police normally come along too – again, that’s to introduce the young people to the police in the area, and for the police to engage with the community, which I think is essential.”

The Islington Street Association holds other community events throughout the year, and they’re on the look out for residents to join the organising team.