This blog is part of a series produced by Intercultural Roots for Public Health (Coventry, England) as part of their Tier One partnership with MakingCulture® e.V. (Coburg, Bayern). Find out more about their partnership
After our inspiring visit to Germany, it was time to return the favour. This July, Intercultural Roots was thrilled to welcome our partners from Making Culture, Gerhard, Peter, and Liliana, to Coventry for the second leg of our 'Bridging Cultures' exchange.
If our time in Coburg was about discovering shared history, our time in Coventry was about living it together, through music, food, and the industrial heritage that links our two cities.
From Weaving to Wheels The weekend was a journey through Coventry’s evolution. We began by stepping back in time at The Weaver’s House, exploring the city's medieval textile roots, a perfect mirror to the textile history we uncovered in Coburg.
Naturally, no visit to Coventry is complete without acknowledging the "Motor City" legacy. We visited the Coventry Transport Museum, where the team explored the vintage cars that connect to the manufacturing history we discussed in Germany (specifically the Brose connection). Seeing the classic Triumphs and Jaguars in the flesh brought those historical "threads" to life.
The Rhythm of Exchange While the museums provided the context, the true connection happened in the creative spaces. At the Delia Derbyshire Building at Coventry University, we held workshops that dissolved language barriers.
One of the absolute highlights captured in our video diary was the group learning the song "Muli bwanji" (meaning "How are you?"). Led by the incredible musicians Beebee Bassey, Jude Rees, and Limbani Nhlane, the room erupted into song and dance. It was a powerful reminder that while we use maps to trace our history, we use music to build our future.
Breaking Bread and Building Bridges Community is built around the table. From a Turkish BBQ in Earlsdon to exploring the vegan food market in Broadgate and a farewell Lebanese meal, we shared more than just food; we shared stories, laughter, and plans for the future.
As our German friends departed from Coventry station, we didn't just say goodbye to colleagues; we said goodbye to family. As the "Gold Frame" photo in our video shows, we have truly framed a lasting friendship.
