This week, the African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust (ACLT) held its first Blood Drive Lates event, an evening blood donation experience designed to increase the number of young Black blood donors in the UK.

Partnering with MOBO Award-winning podcast, 90s Baby Show, this community driven event took place at Brixton Blood Donation Centre on Wednesday, 26th March 2025, from 6pm – 9pm.

Transforming Blood Donation into a Cultural Experience
Blood Drive Lates redefines the experience of what is often perceived by Gen Z to be a ‘clinical task’ by combining music, food, games and social connection to engage young audiences in the lifesaving experience of donating blood.

As part of their 10 year anniversary celebrations, 90s Baby Show hosts – Temi Alchemy, Fred Santana, and Dennis ‘VP’ – are deepening their commitment to community engagement and impact, working alongside ACLT on ‘Blood Drive Lates’ to drive meaningful change within the Black British community.

A Movement for the Next Generation
Blood Drive Lates kicks off a series of cultural events in 2025 that sees ACLT mobilise Gen Z Black Brits in particular to become regular blood donors. This event is the first of many, aiming to change perceptions, build a lasting culture of donation, and drive awareness of health disparities that affect Black communities.

Beverley De-Gale OBE and Orin Lewis OBE, Co-Founders of ACLT, said: “We know that representation matters. By partnering with 90s Baby Show, we’re reaching the younger members of our community in a way that feels relevant, inclusive, and fun. Donating blood should feel as natural as any other act of community and care within our culture.”

The Urgent Need for Black Blood Donors
ACLT’s mission is simple yet urgent – to increase the number of Black individuals from African and Caribbean descent donating blood, stem cells, and organs to provide life-saving treatments.

The need for the Ro subtype blood – a rare type mostly found in people of African and Caribbean heritage – has never been greater. This blood type is vital for Sickle Cell patients, who require regular blood transfusions. However, only 2% of UK blood donors are Black, making it critical to close this life-threatening gap.

Get Involved and Save Lives
For those that could not attend, the opportunity to join a growing community of life-savers still stands. Visit ACLT’s website here to learn more about eligibility requirements and how to become a donor beyond the event.