A group of Tower Hamlets young people inspired by local hero, international boxer Ramla Ali, led the production of a new permanent mural on the corner of Bethnal Green Road and Barnet Grove. It was co-created through workshops with participants from young people’s programmes at Numbi Arts and Rich Mix.

Focusing on the theme ‘Listen to the Past, Make the Future Happen’, the group explored local history, contemporary street art and their perspectives on how changes in Bethnal Green will impact the future. Kinsi Abdulleh, artist and founder of Numbi Arts, then put their ideas into action by conceptualising the mural’s content, whose inspirational slogan reads ‘Choose Courage’. Working with street art specialists Paint the Change, the mural was painted by street artist Atma. 

This film dives into the art and culture of the Bethnal Green community. We explore themes of the past, present and future. We wanted to highlight the area and what it represents to the local people. As young creatives, it was important to us that we share a message that speaks to our background and our values. We hope our mural speaks to this and spreads inspiration and hope. – Opal and Fariha, Co-producers

The mural will give locals, passersby, shoppers, business owners and schoolchildren a striking image, reminding us of the fearlessness and mould-breaking that Ramla Ali represents.