IMPACT STORIES: COMMUNITY VOICES AND TESTIMONIALS
Demonstrating Social Value, Cultural Significance, and Economic Impact
The Hidden Beach Impact Site is a living testament to the festival’s mission, showcasing the human stories, cultural exchange, and economic benefits that make our work vital to the community and our partners.
CULTURAL HERITAGE & SOUND SYSTEM LEGACY (2 Stories)
1. ABA SHANTI-I — Sound System Culture (2026)
“Hidden Beach keeps the spirit of sound system culture alive. When we bring the full Aba Shanti-I system to Hastings, the energy is pure — community, unity, upliftment. Hidden Beach treats this culture with the respect it deserves.”
— Aba Shanti-I
2. JAH SHAKA — Legacy Story (Historic HB Moment)
“When Jah Shaka played in Hastings, it was more than a show — it was a blessing. The town felt the presence of a true pioneer. Hidden Beach honoured Shaka’s mission of spiritual sound system culture, and people still talk about that night. It remains one of the most important cultural moments in our local history.”
LOCAL ARTIST PLATFORM (3 Stories)
3. HEXAGONAL — Local Band Story
“It was great to play at Hidden Beach on the main stage to a wide, diverse community audience and visitors from around the UK. It gave us a platform to connect with people who might never have heard our music otherwise.”
— [Hexagonal Band Member Name], Local Musician
4. GAYLE EDMUNDS — Local Artist Story
“Hidden Beach is more than just a gig; it’s a celebration of local talent. The support from the team and the energy from the crowd made it one of the most memorable performances of my career. It truly feels like Hastings believes in its own artists.”
— Gayle Edmunds, Local Artist
5. POPPY ROCKET — Local Artist Story
“The festival’s commitment to showcasing diverse local acts is unmatched. Being on the bill alongside international names gave me a huge confidence boost and opened doors to new collaborations. It’s a vital part of the local music ecosystem.”
— Poppy Rocket, Local Performer
INTERNATIONAL & NATIONAL REACH (2 Stories)
6. SOUTH AFRICA ARTIST — International Cultural Exchange
“Coming to Hidden Beach was transformative. It was an honour to share the sounds of South Africa with a UK audience that was so open and welcoming. This festival is building global connections through music and culture.”
— [South Africa Artist Name], Visiting Performer
7. AWALE JANT — UK National Artist
“Even as a London-based artist, playing Hidden Beach felt like a homecoming. The crowd’s deep appreciation for Afrobeat and global rhythms is rare and inspiring. It’s a truly special place to perform.”
— [Awalé Jant Band Member Name], UK National Artist
HEALTH & WELLBEING (1 Story)
8. WELLNESS PRACTITIONER — Health Screening Impact
“The opportunity to offer free health screenings at Hidden Beach was invaluable. We engaged with hundreds of community members who might not otherwise visit a clinic, providing early advice and support. It demonstrates the festival’s commitment to holistic community health, not just entertainment.”
— [Practitioner Name], Health Screening Provider
ECONOMIC & COMMUNITY IMPACT (2 Stories)
9. KHALID’S KITCHEN — Trader / Vendor Story
“Trading at Hidden Beach was our biggest weekend of the year. The foot traffic and the diverse audience allowed us to reach hundreds of new customers, leading directly to a 25% increase in our catering bookings for the following quarter. It’s a massive boost for our small local business.”
— [Khalid Name], Owner, Khalid’s Kitchen
10. FAMILY VISITOR — Audience Story
“Hidden Beach is the one festival we can bring the whole family to. The atmosphere is safe, the music is incredible, and there’s something for every generation. It’s a day of pure joy and belonging that we look forward to all year.”
— [Family Name], Local Resident
YOUTH, EDUCATION & WORKSHOPS (2 Stories)
11. DRUMMING WORKSHOP PARTICIPANT — Skills Development
“I’d never played an instrument before, but the drumming workshop was so much fun and really welcoming. It made me feel connected to the music and the community. I’ve signed up for lessons now—it changed what I thought I could do.”
— [Youth Participant Name], Age [X]
12. FLAMENCO DANCE WORKSHOP — Cultural Education
“The Flamenco workshop was a beautiful way to experience a different culture right here in Hastings. It wasn’t just about the steps; it was about the history and the passion. It shows how Hidden Beach brings the world to our doorstep.”
— [Workshop Participant Name], Adult Learner
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE (1 Story)
13. TRIBUTE TO FELA KUTI — Cultural Significance
“The Fela Kuti tribute set was a powerful moment of cultural education and celebration. It showed Hidden Beach’s commitment to honouring the pioneers of global music and ensuring their legacy is passed on to new generations. It was a masterclass in musical history.”
— [Placeholder Name], Cultural Contributor