From the collection of
London’s Screen Archives is a network of over 50 organisations with a collective vision – to preserve and share London’s history on film. The network is managed by Film London and we work with our partners to digitise, preserve, and offer access to their moving image collections.
Norma Best speaks to Black Cultural Archives' Len Garrison about her early years and experiences in the UK as a WWII servicewoman.
This film is from Black Cultural Archives, a member of the London's Screen Archives Network.
Meet some of the pioneering women who broke through barriers, forged new paths and made history
This collection celebrates female firsts that span disciplines and centuries, from film, fashion, sports and writing to technology, science, politics and exploration. Shrugging off patronising questions and challenging societal norms, these ambitious women revolutionised their respective fields and shaped history. While one or two figures might be polarising and controversial, and other names forgotten over time, their achievements certainly aren’t.
Some of these women weren’t recognised as pioneers until long after their death, others had their ground-breaking contributions credited to men – or, they were simply ignored. While the glass ceiling still needs smashing, these determined, resourceful and ingenious women chipped and chipped and chipped away, setting precedents to inspire us all.
