Submitted by colette.bradley... on
Today we're catching up with Hayley Harewood from grassroots organisation Keeping Our Girls Safe (KOGS). Keeping Our Girls Safe (KOGS) is a registered charity, established in 2011, working with children and young people to educate about unhealthy relationships, child sexual exploitation (CSE), grooming and risks; to empower them to have confidence and self-esteem; and inspire them to make positive life choices. They are based in Oldham and work across Greater Manchester.
Here's what Hayley had to tell us...
In response to the 'theme 'Women’s Empowerment' in sixty words or less, can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Hayley and my heritage is Black Caribbean and White. I have three children, and I have worked in the voluntary sector for 12 years running a grassroots organisation, working with women and girls. I love travelling to different countries and trying different cuisines, reading and spending time outside in nature.
What have you done for your community which you would like people to know about?
I have recently taken part in some medical research for people with kidney disorders from black Caribbean heritage – the aim of the research is to screen for a gene which is thought to be more prevalent in those from certain backgrounds to understand if genetics are a contributing factor for kidney disease.
What does Black History Month mean to you?
Black History Month for me is celebrating those that have paved and continue to pave the way in some shape or form for the next generation to thrive to their fullest potential.
For black history month this year, the theme is ‘Saluting our Sisters' OR 'Matriarchs of Movements' which aims to highlight the crucial role that black women have played in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities. Can you tell us about a black woman who has served as inspiration in your life?
An inspiring black woman for me is Baroness Doreen Lawrence, mother of the late Stephen Lawrence. Doreen used her pain from losing her son to campaign tirelessly in order to shine a light on institutional racism in the Met Police. At a time where many mothers would be consumed in their own grief Doreen, a true matriarch, set to work on gaining equality for all.
What change would you like to see in Oldham that would benefit the Black community?
I would like to see more cultural celebration events and exhibitions in community spaces, allowing other people to enjoy the richness of the community – from the food and music, to the history, the books and the poetry; the black community have so much to offer.
And finally, what would you say to black people in Greater Manchester to inspire them to make a difference in the community or wider?
Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter. - Martin Luther King Jr.
Hayley Harewood
CEO - Keeping Our Girls Safe (KOGS)