"The future of humankind is in our hands"

Last updated 28 March 2023

Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have seen so many acts of kindness across the country. 

Whether they’ve been reaching out to an isolated neighbour, helping keep others connected through lockdown, or keeping vital services running, people all over the country have helped keep communities going in times of crisis. 

Now, the British Red Cross has partnered with the nationally acclaimed artist Yinka Ilori MBE, in the creation of a mural that celebrates those acts of kindness. 

Located on Ebor Street in Shoreditch, East London, the 15ft mural will be displayed until 4th July, as a celebration of the human connections we have made through the pandemic.

Getting to know your communities

Ilori was inspired by the natural world, and the green spaces he spent time in during the first lockdown – “the idea that there is beauty in everything that we see around us, people and nature and our city,” he said. 

“London is a lonely city in the best of times so it’s really important to get to know your communities,” said Ilori. “The pandemic really hit that home for me. I’ve made an effort to speak to new people, young and old, and I pretty much know everyone on my street now.”

I THINK THAT BEING KIND IS IN EVERYONE, EVEN IF THEY DON'T BELIEVE IT.

“The future of humankind is in our hands,” he said. “We all have a responsibility to be kind. I think that being kind is in everyone, even if they don’t believe it, but I think everyone has kindness in their soul” 

People like Tracey, Charlet and David have helped the British Red Cross to reach over two million people through acts of kindness, with volunteers and staff delivering food and medicine, providing a listening ear on our coronavirus support line, and supporting at vaccination centres. 

The mural will be open to the public until 4th July in Shoreditch, East London. Share your visit, take a photo and tag @BritishRedCross and #PowerofKindness on social media!