Community urged to make submissions for book on Merebank
If you would like to submit your story, email merebankbookproject@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page.
HOPING to encapsulate the rich, diverse and vibrant history of Merebank, a committee who are gathering material for a non-profit book are urging residents and former residents to share their stories.
The Merebank Book Project is spearheaded by Viren Singh and a group of progressive community activists from the late 1970s to 1990s. They are now calling on the public to provide photographs, memorabilia and historical accounts which covers between the 1970 and 2000 era.
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Singh, said through the book, they aim to create a lasting legacy and a sustainable development project for the betterment of the community. He said the book will tell the story of Merebank, its resilient and diverse community, their struggles and victories.
“It will be a book by the community, for the community. It is expected to outline the rich and colorful history of Merebank and its development, community life, politics, sports , religion and social aspects.” he said.
Singh said there Facebook page and Whatsapp group has received a phenomenal response as people have shared their memories and pictures.
“We have been happily inundated with memories and historical accounts by hundreds of community members over the past few weeks. There is unbridled excitement of current and former residents, who are reconnecting and reminiscing over nostalgic eras and childhood memories,” he said.
Singh said both former and present community members are encouraged to send in their stories.
“Our research team has connected with many of the pioneering families and founding members of the diverse organisations that operated in the area for the period under review, however, there may be some who have yet not been interviewed and may have important submissions to make. We request anyone who has relevant material, information, or documentation, including photographs to please make such material available to us. All contributions will be acknowledged, and copies will be made and originals returned to owners,” he said.
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Singh added that the book is collaborative effort and a non-profit project.
“Therefore, printing and publishing costs will be sourced from the community and all proceeds will be used to launch a community trust to benefit future generations of Merebank. We are aiming to release the book in the last quarter of 2023,” he said.
If you would like to submit your story, email merebankbookproject@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page, Merebank Book Project. The deadline for submissions in February 15.
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