V&A Marks 10 Years of African Heritage Tours with Reflections from Guides

On July 17, 2026, the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London marked a decade of its African Heritage Tours, which were launched by Janet Browne in 2016. These tours were pioneering in their focus on African and Caribbean heritage, paving the way for similar initiatives at the British Museum and Tate Modern. Original tour guides Pennie Mendes, Joy Johnson, and Nadia Denton shared their reflections. Mendes spoke about her initial fears and the museum's increased collection of African Diaspora art. Johnson highlighted her personal development and her receipt of a Highly Commended Marsh Award. Denton remarked on the tours' popularity and the ongoing discussions surrounding repatriation, with Director Tristram Hunt presenting certificates during the celebration.