A BRADFORD-based actor fears nothing will fully change on racial issues despite the Black Lives Matter movement, adding Britain is one of the most tolerant countries in the world.

Kafayat Adegoke (pictured below), who has appeared in a host of TV dramas including the BBC's Years and Years and working with 12 Years a Slave director Steve McQueen, says although she is glad to be alive when race relations are changing, she concedes that racism is inbuilt.

Thousands of protesters across the country have taken part in demonstrations this weekend following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

A series of peaceful protests have been held in Bradford's Centenary Square over recent weeks as people united to take a stand against racism and police brutality.

The social-impact performance maker said: "I'm normally soft spoken on racial issues. It's really sensitive and easy to overstep.

"I don't think we have ever experienced such a global reaction to racism before.

"George Floyd is a catalyst, it's really sad. I'm glad I'm alive to see this happening now.

"This very moment I am old enough to see what is going on. It's iconic.

"We've never experienced such a big global challenge.

"It's not going to change, although it's going to make things better. It's embedded in things.

"If I want to survive in the world today I have to join it somehow.

"I am African. I am black, it all affects me.

"Despite that, bigots exist here as well. Britain is still one of the most tolerant countries in the world.  

"I don't get jobs sometimes when they see my surname. They immediately assume I will have a thick African accent without talking to me at all."

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Meanwhile, the actress also revealed her own experiences of lockdown living alone in Bradford, saying she has enjoyed taking time away from busy day-to-day life.

Kafayat has also continued working online during lockdown, with a series of regular shows. These have included Queer Down, a Bradford Council-funded show she presents as her and guests from the arts find ways of how to avoid coronavirus conspiracy theorists which she brands 'Covidiots'.

She added: "I have been working from home and have had a lot of time on my hands.

"I have not been anywhere. I have not been able to see anyone.

"I have really enjoyed three months of lockdown. I needed to take a step back and chill for a while."

She added she would like people to have one week lockdown every month once the restrictions are lifted.

Kafayat also dubs Bradford as a 'radical' place and is an active figure on the city's arts scene.

This has included taking part in last year's Bradford Fringe with a powerful live art installation tackling gender inequality and sexism.

The piece, called Orisha, was inspired by Bradford Council’s initiative to name more streets and public spaces after women to recognise female achievement and further improve the gender balance around the Bradford district in honouring historical figures.