My first year with Restore Black C.I.C started slowly as I spent a considerable amount of time applying for and awaiting the outcome of funding applications necessary to launch key projects. Once funding was secured, the pace of activity increased, leading to significant community engagement and impact throughout the financial year. 1. Community Healing and Engagement Initiatives The Grip Project (October 2023): I served on the planning committee and was the plenary speaker at this community healing event held at the Guildhall, Gloucester. The focus was on Gloucester’s Windrush Generation, celebrating the 75th anniversary of their experience and highlighting the profound challenges faced by the "Barrel Children" (children left in the Caribbean by parents). In February 2024 speaking directly with a community group of Black elders, I had the honour to engage deeply with their narratives and discuss the importance of openly addressing the difficulties they have faced. This event fostered healing through shared stories and recognition of their resilience. 2. Launch of Restore Black In May 2024, during Mental Health Week, Restore Black was officially launched with its inaugural event, “Restore Black Presents: Soul Gold.” This event featured a live on-stage therapy session with the esteemed guest Sarah Brown, who courageously shared her therapeutic journey with me. Her openness gave solace to many individuals who realised they were not alone in their struggles, illuminating Restore Black’s mission to make mental health support accessible and empowering others to embrace therapy as a healing path. The event’s blend of authentic storytelling, therapy, and soulful music created an unforgettable atmosphere of resilience and inspiration. It emphasised confronting difficult pasts with courage to open space for transformation, making a meaningful impact on attendees and the wider community. Beyond the launch, Restore Black extended its community engagement in other significant ways: 3. Thought Leadership through Media Since June 2024, I have contributed regularly through blog writing for the community, published on Gloucestershire Live and picked up by Yahoo. The blogs explore critical social issues intertwined with mental health, such as the universal need for ‘home’ experienced deeply by asylum seekers and refugees. By shedding light on these complex narratives, the blogs have built greater empathy and understanding within the broader community. LOVE IN COLOUR Event (September 2024): I was also a presenter at this inspiring event exploring Black relationships, featuring renowned relationship expert Paul Brunson. The event offered a platform to examine the rich dynamics of finding, maintaining, and nurturing love within the Black community. Alongside expert insights, we explored how personal narratives shape connections and fostered meaningful conversations designed to inspire reflection and empowerment. 4. Fostering Empowerment and Healing Restore Black’s multifaceted activities have reached individuals across the community, providing solace, inspiration, and visibility to voices often unheard. The organisation’s approach advocates for mental health accessibility, promotes healing through storytelling and arts, and encourages community resilience. By confronting stigma and encouraging open dialogues, Restore Black has fostered empowerment, hope, and a sense of belonging, ultimately making a lasting positive impact on community mental wellbeing.

Throughout the financial year, Restore Black C.I.C has actively engaged with a diverse range of stakeholders to shape and enhance its programs and community impact. This has included consultations with community leaders, local Black elders, event participants, and partner organisations. For example, in planning events like “The Grip Project” I worked alongside the producer and the funders of the project. There continues to be ongoing dialogue with Black community groups and therapy practitioners helped ensure the content was culturally relevant and responsive to participants’ needs. Feedback gathered from these consultations has been invaluable in refining therapeutic approaches, event formats, and outreach strategies. This collaborative approach remains a cornerstone of Restore Black’s work and will continue to inform future initiatives.

No remuneration was received

No transfer of assets other than for full consideration