People / My Bristol Favourites
My Bristol Favourites: Muneera Pilgrim
Muneera Pilgrim is a poet, cultural producer, writer, broadcaster and TEDx speaker.
She is writer in residence at Bristol Old Vic and is also currently taking part in an artistic pilot project at Jacob’s Wells Baths.
These are Muneera’s top-five Bristol favourites:
Second Plus+
Second Plus+ sells pre-loved fashion and accessories – photo: Jessica Hall
“Second Plus+ is a store inside Sparks in Broadmead run by Sophia, that deals with all of my plus size thrifting needs. As far back as I can remember I have experienced fat phobia and Second Plus+ has been instrumental in me re-finding my confidence in recent times. And it is sustainable too – win win. Whether it is a chat or sparkle dopamine hit, I always leave there feeling better.”
Masjid Bilal
Masjid Bilal is located at the back of the Kora Community Centre on Stapleton Road in Easton – photo: Jessica Hall
“I love the fact that the Senegambian community is growing in Bristol. And if you are lucky you might get there just as they dish jollof (a jollof to end all of the wars, by the way). But even when there is no food, there is a welcoming environment that makes it one of my favourite places to pray Jummah prayers.”
The Rastafari Culture Centre
The Rastafari Culture Centre is on Grosvenor Road in St Paul’s – photo: Martin Booth
“It is wonderful to have a space standing in Bristol, that houses and facilitates resistance, spirituality, love, community, history and culture. From the Justice for Marlon Thomas campaign, to community land ownership rights, to spirituality and worship, it feels like the Rastafari Culture Centre is a living archive, and is core to the things that should be celebrated about Bristol. And with the new artwork of beloved community leader and elder, Ras Bandele, there is another reason to visit.”
Bristol Old Vic
Muneera recommends visiting the Bristol Old Vic on Fridays for doughnut day – photo: Jessica Hall
“Particularly on a Friday because that’s when they do their special donuts. I recommend the Earl Grey and lavender. It makes the perfect sweet treat to accompany all of the richness of culture and the arts. With creatives, writers, thinkers and lovers of stories under one roof, Bristol Old Vic is one of my favourite places to hang, write or people watch.”
The 48 bus
The 48 bus connects the city centre with Eastville, Fishponds and Downend – photo: Jessica Hall
“I have failed my driving test countless times and due to a leg injury my bike is taking a rest, so the 48 bus is my chariot. I know Bristol bus timings are not great. But for the most part you get to witness the diversity of Bristol, a nice warm seat if you sit at the back by the engine and frequently you might spark up a nice conversation.”
Main photo: Bristol Old Vic
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