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This week, as part of the 'Saluting our Sisters' theme for Black History Month, we caught up with Nicky T. Iginla, CEO of Caring and Sharing Rochdale. Caring and Sharing Rochdale was founded back in 2017 and is located in both the United Kingdom and Africa. They seek to empower and support the BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) community, asylum seekers, and those facing deprivation. They provide essential services for community integration while nurturing the artistic and cultural expressions of our community's youth.
Find out more about their wonderful projects here: caringandsharingrochdale.org
We spoke with Nicky and what Black History Month means to her...
About me, my community, and Black History Month
My name is Nicky Tinu Iginla; I am a highly devoted community leader that has dedicated her life to championing racial equality, intersectionality, and the welfare of marginalised communities. As the founder of the Caring and Sharing Charity Organisation situated in Rochdale, I've taken the initiative to address the systemic challenges faced by the BAME community within Rochdale and its surrounding areas. Our organisation, a beacon of hope for many, serves the marginalised - from asylum seekers and refugees to children affected by ill health and abuse, and even victims of human trafficking.
While many see challenges, I see opportunities - opportunities to empower, uplift, and reintegrate. This belief is mirrored in the charity's efforts to help immigrants and asylum seekers assimilate into their new communities. By offering resources like Signposts and ESOL Classes, along with group activities centred around arts and culture, we have sought to bridge the gap between newcomers and locals, fostering mutual respect and understanding. My commitment extends beyond just direct assistance. Mental well-being, especially in marginalised communities, is an area of deep concern for me. Through the charity, I do not only support those undergoing depression in the BAME community but also shed light on significant issues such as domestic violence, equipping individuals with the knowledge and resources to overcome these challenges.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked tirelessly to support young people and empower those in an abusive environment to get much-needed help. I took proactive measures, understanding the unique vulnerabilities faced by the community. From wellbeing sessions to befriending services, the objective was clear - no one should feel alone, isolated, or helpless. But my involvement doesn't stop at the boundaries of my charity organisation. I am the Neighbourhood organiser for Rochdale Borough for Manchester International Festival 2021 and 2023. Also, I am an active participant and member of various organisations, including the Independent Advisory (IAG) GMP-Rochdale, Mama's Health and Poverty Partnership, Greater Manchester VCSE Leadership Group, African Women in Leadership Organisation (AWLO), and Greater Manchester Citizens. Each of these platforms represents another avenue for me to advocate, contribute, and effect change.
One of my most cherished endeavours is my involvement in the Black History Movement. It's not just about celebrating the past; it's about crafting a future where young black individuals can look back and feel proud, knowing their history is rich, their contributions invaluable, and their potential limitless. In essence, I reflect my community - its challenges, its victories, its aspirations. Every day, I strive to uplift those around me, to bring light to issues often left in the shadows, and to ensure that every individual, irrespective of their race or background, has an equal opportunity to thrive.
My inspiration, the change I would like to see in Rochdale, and a word for the black people in Greater Manchester
Michelle Obama inspires me as a black woman with her grace, intelligence and advocacy. Her trailblazing presence shows the strength, resilience, and excellence inhibited in every woman, and I strongly believe that this self-awareness has made me face life's challenges with a positive attitude. In Rochdale, I would like to see better social cohesion within the community, which will make being vulnerable with ourselves possible, to access thoughtful and functional support from the community and individuals. The word of advice for my fellow black people in Greater Manchester is “let love lead”.
Nicky T. Iginla
CEO - Caring and Sharing Rochdale