Film premiere celebrates heritage and community in South Leeds

Last Sunday (28 September 2025) community members, civic leaders, and cultural representatives gathered at Slung Low in Holbeck, for the premiere of ‘Bangladesh to Beeston – Our Story’, a documentary film produced by ISSE Ltd.

The film captures the powerful voices and memories of the first-generation Bangladeshi community who made Beeston their home, sharing stories of resilience, sacrifice, and the building of new lives in Leeds.

The premiere was attended by the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Cllr Dan Cohen, the King’s Representative Deputy Lord Lieutenant of West Yorkshire, Major Stan Hardy, councillors from across the city, and respected community leaders, alongside the local families whose stories shaped the film.

Humayun Islam, Director of ISSE Ltd and producer of the film, said:

“It has been an honour to direct and produce Bangladesh to Beeston – Our Story. This project ensures that the journeys, sacrifices, and contributions of our first-generation Bangladeshi community are remembered and celebrated. I am incredibly proud of my hometown Beeston and grateful to everyone who took part in this historic piece of work.”

An attendee, reflecting on the evening, shared:

“This film made me feel emotional and proud. It tells the story of our parents and grandparents who worked so hard to give us a future here in Leeds. It’s wonderful to finally see their voices recognised and celebrated.”

The event also featured cultural performances, plaque presentations to film participants, and a strong sense of community pride.

The film will soon be made available online for wider viewing.

 

This post is based on a press release issued by ISSE Ltd

 

While you’re here, can we ask a favour?

South Leeds Life is published by a not-for-profit social enterprise. We keep our costs as low as possible but we’ve been hit by increases in the print costs for our monthly newspaper which have doubled in the last two years.

Could you help support local community news by making a one off donation, or even better taking out a supporters subscription?

Donate here, or sign up for a subscription at bit.ly/SLLsubscribe


Thank you for your support

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *