This Black History Month 2025, discover the power of ancestry with pioneering genealogist and author Paul Crooks. Known for tracing his own African Caribbean family roots from London to Jamaica and back to West Africa, Paul has inspired countless people of African, Caribbean, and African American descent to begin their own journeys of discovery.
In this insightful talk, Paul will reveal how he used a combination of public records, oral history, and DNA testing to reconnect with his heritage. He will share practical strategies for overcoming common obstacles in Black family history research, offering guidance that is both accessible and empowering.
Whether you are just beginning to explore your family’s story or already deep into genealogical research, this event will provide invaluable tools. Attendees will learn how to navigate UK and international records, understand the role of oral traditions, and use DNA as a bridge to the past. Above all, the session will highlight how tracing ancestry can help reconstruct identity and strengthen connections to African diasporic heritage.
Paul’s work has made him a leading figure in the field of Black genealogy. His acclaimed historical novel Ancestors and his essential guide A Tree Without Roots have cemented his reputation as both a storyteller and a trailblazer. He has also appeared on Who Do You Think You Are? with Moira Stuart, sharing his expertise with national audiences.
This event is more than a workshop—it is a celebration of heritage, resilience, and the importance of remembering. Attendees will leave with practical knowledge, renewed confidence, and a deeper appreciation of their place within the story of the African diaspora.