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Join us as we mark South Asian Heritage Month 2024, by sharing some stories from our Action Together member organisations to highlight the richness and diversity of their South Asian Heritage, and find out just what this celebration means to them.
Here's our interview with Zakir Ahmad, CEO of Oldham community organisation, Yuvanis Foundation, an organisation who have been committed to empowering and uplifting individuals from diverse BAME backgrounds since their launch in 2009.
Can you tell us about yourself and your organisation?
I have been leading Yuvanis Foundation, a grassroots charity based in Chadderton, for over 14 years. Our organisation is dedicated to supporting the South Asian community and tackling inequality within our community. We focus on improving health equity, providing sports and recreational opportunities, and fostering social inclusion for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Our initiatives are designed to bridge gaps, create connections, and build a sense of community that transcends cultural and socio-economic barriers.
What have you done for your community that you would like people to know about?
One of our significant achievements is the establishment of wellbeing hubs, including our Women’s Hub, Youth Hub, and Men’s Hub. These hubs offer tailored programs that address physical health, mental wellbeing, and personal development. For instance, our Women's Hub has been instrumental in improving the mental and physical health of women from underserved and disadvantaged Ethnic Minority communities in Oldham.
We also organise various activities such as weekly football sessions, cycling sessions, and holiday activities that have positively impacted the lives of young people. Our cycling initiative is a noteworthy example. Through it, we have trained eight volunteers in leading cycling groups; trained multiple groups of women to cycle for the first time; engaged more than 50 young people in cycle maintenance and confidence building group cycle rides.
Why do you feel it is important to celebrate South Asian Heritage Month?
Celebrating South Asian Heritage is crucial as it acknowledges the rich cultural contributions of the South Asian community to the broader society. It fosters a sense of pride and identity among South Asians, promoting cultural understanding and appreciation within the wider community. By celebrating our heritage, we also highlight the challenges faced by South Asians, encouraging solidarity and collective action to address these issues. It's a way to honour our past, celebrate our present, and inspire future generations to uphold our values and traditions.
What change would you like to see in Oldham that would benefit the South Asian community?
I would like to see increased investment in community-led initiatives that address the specific needs of the South Asian community in Oldham. This includes better access to health services, educational opportunities, and employment support tailored to our community's unique challenges.
I also envision a more inclusive and cohesive society where cultural diversity is celebrated, and systemic barriers to equality are removed. Strengthening partnerships between local authorities, businesses, and community organisations, like Yuvanis Foundation, is essential to drive this change and ensure sustainable development.
And finally, what would you say to people of South Asian heritage in Greater Manchester to inspire them to make a difference in the community or wider?
To the people of South Asian heritage in Greater Manchester, I would say, your unique experiences and cultural heritage are invaluable assets. Use them to make a positive impact in your community. Get involved, volunteer, and support local initiatives. By contributing your time, skills, and resources, you can help build a stronger, more inclusive society. Remember, every small action counts and collectively, we can create significant change. Let's celebrate our heritage not just through words, but through actions that uplift our community and inspire future generations.