Empowering women and youth with Tahera Khanam

In this episode of the Meet the Mancunian podcast, host Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe interviews Tahera Khanam, founder of Better We and nominee for Volunteer of the Year at the Spirit of Manchester Awards. Tahera shares her journey of creating clubs and training programs to support and empower women and youth in the Manchester community.  Through personal stories and experiences, she highlights the importance of community work, the challenges faced, and the impact made. Tahera also discusses overcoming personal challenges, like her cancer diagnosis, through community service, and underscores the value of building strong support networks. Did you know:  ·      Better We supports the community in Longsight·      The 4 dimensions of deprivation include education, employment, health and disability and housing·      36.2% of all households in Longsight are deprived in one dimension, above the average of Manchester (32.8%).  ·      68% of all households in Longsight are deprived in one or more dimension.  Key resource:Better We Time stamps of key moments in the podcast episode & transcript:(01:04) Meet Tahera Khanam(02:04) Tahera's Journey and Community Impact(03:14) The Birth of Better We(04:23) Empowering Women and Youth(05:56) Services Offered by Better We(08:12) Challenges and Triumphs(12:33) Community Support and Volunteerism(18:08) Signature questions Listen to the episode and read the transcript on https://www.meetthemancunian.co.uk/#SocialImpact #Women #Youth #Community#Manchester #SpiritOfMcr25 #GM #podcast #NonProfit

In this episode of the Meet the Mancunian podcast,host Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe speaks with Idowu Morafa, Founder of Across Ummah and nominee for Volunteer of the Year and Social Economy Champion at the Spirit of Manchester Awards. Idowu shares her passion for tackling substance abuse,reducing health disparities, and empowering communities through a variety of life-changing projects. She discusses the challenges faced, including language barriers and funding issues, and emphasises the importance of community support, mental health awareness, and educational programs. The episode concludes with valuable advice for aspiring community leaders and a call to action for volunteers and collaborators to join Across Ummah's mission. Did you know:  ·      Around 3 million people in the UK areimpacted by substance abuse·      Children of parents with an addiction aremore likely to develop a substance use disorder in adulthood.·      Parental substance abuse can lead to aggression, violence, and emotional chaos within the household.Key resource:Across Ummah Time stamps of key moments in the podcastepisode & transcript:(02:15) Inspiration and Community Connection(04:23) Founding Across Ummah(04:33) Day-to-Day Operations and Focus Areas(06:03) Spirit of Manchester Awards(08:29) Challenges and Overcoming Them(11:45) Impact Stories and Community Projects(17:49) Addressing Mental Health and Social Issues(21:21) Advice for Aspiring Community Leaders(24:32) Signature Questions and Conclusion Listen to the episode and read the transcripton https://www.meetthemancunian.co.uk/#SocialImpact #SubstanceAbuse #Community#Manchester #SpiritOfMcr25 #GM #podcast #NonProfit

In this episode of 'Meet the Mancunian' hosted by Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe, Francis Duncan, Community Engagement Manager at Irish Community Care, shares insights into how the organisation supports the Irish and Irish travelling communities in Manchester. Francis discusses his journey into community work, the challenges faced by the Irish travelling community, common misconceptions, and the impact of their initiatives. He highlights the importance of culturally appropriate communities, advocacy, and education in overcoming biases and fosteringunderstanding. The episode underscores the vibrant community spirit and ongoing efforts to make Manchester a more inclusive city.Did you know:  ·      33% of the Manchester population are of Irish descent.·      Romani gypsies, Roma and Irish Traveller are distinct community groups·     An estimated 300,000 Irish Travellers live inUK.Key resource:Irish Community CareTime stamps of key moments in the podcast episode & transcript:(01:02) Introducing Francis Duncan(02:14) Understanding Culturally Appropriate Communities(04:32 Irish Community Care's Mission(06:17) Challenges Faced by the Irish Traveling Community(10:40) Overcoming Mistrust and Bias(14:51) Impact and Future Goals(22:06) Advice for Supporting Communities(24:08) Upcoming Events and Community Engagement(25:43) Signature QuestionsListen to the episode and read the transcript on https://www.meetthemancunian.co.uk/#SocialImpact #IrishTravellers #IrishCommunity #Manchester #SpiritOfMcr25 #GM #podcast #NonProfit

In the first episode of Season 11 of the Meet the Mancunian podcast, host Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe interviews Jillian Alexander, the founder of the Unbound Programme and anominee for the Spirit of Manchester Awards in the Inspiring Campaign category.Jillian discusses her journey in tackling modern slavery, from volunteering as a young girl to her impactful work as a first responder for modern slavery survivors. She shares insights into the Unbound Programme, which provides upskilling and support for survivors, and highlights the importance of raisingawareness about modern slavery within communities. Jillian also discusses the challenges she's faced in building her organisation and the importance of believing in one's vision. The episode explores the significance of Manchester's community spirit and the role of individuals in driving social change. Listeners are encouraged to get involved and support the cause, with details provided on how to connect with the Unbound Programme.Did you know:  ·      50 million people worldwide are in modern slavery?·      22 million are in forced labour ·      22 million are in forced marriagesKey resources:Unbound ProgrammeReporting modern slaveryTime stamps of key moments in the podcast episode & transcript:(01:02) Guest Introduction: Jillian Alexander(01:41) Jillian's Journey and Inspiration(02:37) Challenges and Solutions in Modern Slavery(04:28) Impact of the Unbound Programme(07:43) Addressing Myths and Raising Awareness(09:00) Advice for Community Involvement(10:13) Signature Questions and Personal InsightsListen to the episode and read the transcript on https://www.meetthemancunian.co.uk/#SocialImpact #ModernSlavery #Community #Manchester #SpiritOfMcr25 #GM #podcast #NonProfit #volunteer

In Season 11 of the Meet the Mancunian podcast, host Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe partners with the Spirit of Manchester Awards to highlight the incredible nominees making social impact in Manchester. The season explores the personal journeys of community champions, their motivations, challenges, and purpose. Episodes are released every Tuesday starting October 14, 2025. Listen to the podcast to discover the heart of Manchester, one story at a time. Thank you to artist Mahua Roy for the season creatives. Listen to past episodes on www.meetthemancunian.co.uk.Time stamps of key moments in the podcast episode & transcript:(00:00) Introduction to Season 11(00:07) Spotlighting Community Champions(00:44) Season Launch details(00:53) Where to Listen(01:04) Connect with the host(01:17) Social Media and Artist CreditsListen to the episode and read the transcript on https://www.meetthemancunian.co.uk/#SocialImpact #Community #Manchester #SpiritOfMcr25 #GM #podcast #NonProfit #volunteer 

In the season 10 finale of Meet the Mancunian podcast, host Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe speaks with Sophie Jones, Community Engagement Lead at In Our Nature about taking climate action in communities across GreaterManchester. Sophie shares her lifelong passion for environmentalism, her journey from being a school recycling monitor to studying zoology and working with the Manchester Climate Change Agency. She discusses how 'In Our Nature supports diverse Manchester communities in taking climate action tailored to their needs. Highlighting projects like textile upcycling and public transport use, Sophie highlights a holistic approach to overcoming barriers like cost of living and misinformation. She also underscores the power of collective community efforts in making a significant impact on climate change. The episode concludes with Sophie sharing some heartwarming success stories and her vision of empowering communities.   The Meet the Mancunian Podcast will take a break until October 2025, while the podcast host makes some time for work and personal travel, a creative project, and a milestone birthday. The Meet the Mancunian podcast will return with Season 11 in October 2025. In the meantime, listeners can listen to the over 120 inspiring guest episodes on the Meet the Mancunian podcast on www.meettthemancunian.co.uk or your favourite podcast channel. #ClimateChange #ClimateAction #Sustainability #community #GM #manchester #SocialImpact #NonProfit #podcast Did you know:  ·     Climate Action is one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.·     Manchester is aiming to be zero carbon by 2038.·      In Our Nature is a city-wide programme in Manchester connecting the climate crisis to practical actions we can all take to make a difference. Key resource: In Our Nature Time stamps of key moments in the podcast episode &transcript:(01:21) Guest Introduction: Sophie Jones(02:03) Sophie's Journey into Climate Action(03:05) In Our Nature: Mission and Activities(05:02) Community Engagement and Challenges(09:51) Impact Stories and Successes(14:26) Personal Insights and Advice(17:50) Signature QuestionsListen to the episode and read the transcript on www.meetthemancunian.co.uk

In the 11th episode of Season 10 of the Meet the Mancunianpodcast, host Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe interviews Chris Marsh, an ambassador for Forever Manchester. Chris shares his journey of becoming involved with the charity through his passion for running and discusses the various community initiatives supported by Forever Manchester.  From supporting local disability groups to knitting collectives,Chris highlights how the organisation helps various causes within Greater Manchester. He also recounts his experience being named the Great Mancunian of the Year and discusses the challenges of continuous fundraising. The episode provides a comprehensive look at the impactful work of Forever Manchester and offers insights for those looking to make a difference in their own communities. #community #CommunityGroups #GM #manchester #SocialImpact #NonProfit #podcast Did you know:  ·      There are over 17,000 community groups, voluntary organisations and social enterprises in Greater Manchester.·      Community volunteering involves individuals dedicating their time and energy to help others and improve their local community.·      Getting involved in local projects is a great way to be part of a community, building its strength and resilience and ensuring no one is left behind.·      Forever Manchester supports over 1,300 community projects in Greater Manchester every year.  Key resource:Forever Manchester Time stamps of key moments in the podcast episode & transcript: (00:57) Introducing Chris Marsh(01:38) Chris's Journey to Community Support(04:19) Forever Manchester's Impact(06:55) Challenges and Achievements(14:41) Discovering Local Impact(16:03) Upcoming Events and Initiatives(17:19) Signature Questions: Manchester's Unique Social Impact(20:09) Life Lessons and Personal InsightsListen to the episode and read the transcript on www.meetthemancunian.co.uk

In the 10th episode of Season 10 of the Meet the Mancunian podcast, host Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe interviews Zoe Marlow, Food Bank Manager at Dandelion Community Church. They discuss Zoe's personal journey from seeking help to becoming a community leader, the operations and challenges of running a food bank, and the importance of treating individuals with compassion and respect.  Zoe shares insights into food poverty, the stigma attached to seeking help, and community initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and fostering self-sustainability. The episode also highlights Zoe's inspiring trip to Africa and its impact on her community work. #FoodPoverty #FuelPoverty #community #GM #manchester #SocialImpact #NonProfit #podcast Did you know:  ·      In 2022/23 there were 7.2 million people, or 11% of the UK population, in households experiencing food poverty, including 17% of children.·      Food banks are run by charities and are intended as a temporary provision to supply emergency food. ·      In 2022/23, 2.3 million people in the UK lived in households which had used a food bank in the previous 12 months, a rate of 3%. This includes 6% of children, 3% of working-age adults, and around 1% of pensioners.·      In 2023/24 the Trussell Trust supplied 3.12 millionemergency food parcels, the highest number of parcels distributed by the network in a year. Key resource:Dandelion Community CentreTime stamps of key moments in the podcast episode &transcript: (01:02) Meet Zoe Marlow: Food Bank Manager(01:49) Zoe's Personal Journey(02:32) Dandelion Food Bank: How It Works(05:03) Challenges and Obstacles(07:27) Community Support and Services(11:30) Dandelion Community Savers and Africa Trip(16:38) Misunderstandings and Myths(23:15) Community Voice and Development(24:58) Signature Questions Listen to the episode and read the transcript on www.meetthemancunian.co.uk

In the ninth episode of Season 10 of the Meet the Mancunian podcast, host Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe speakswith Ghada Soliman, Founder, of Sustainable Threads. They discuss Ghada's journey from overcoming a serious health condition to her passion for volunteering and helping marginalised communities. Ghada shares how Sustainable Threads reuses old fabrics to create new products, aiming tosupport vulnerable women and promote environmental sustainability. Despite funding challenges and language barriers, the initiative has made significant social and environmental impacts by providing a safe space for women to learn new skills and generate income. Ghada offers advice on turning simple ideas into impactful projects and emphasises the importance of resilience, networking, and kindness.#Sustainability #SustainableClothing #community #GM #manchester #SocialImpact #NonProfit #podcast Did you know:  ·      Approximately 73% of waste clothing in the UK goes to landfill·      In the UK, approximately 350,000 tonnes of clothing waste are sent to landfills each year.·      The UK is the fourth largest producer of textile waste in Europe.·      The environmental impact of fashion waste includes landfill pollution, water pollution, and carbon emissions. Key resource:Sustainable Threads Time stamps of key moments in the podcast episode & transcript:(00:55) Introducing Ghada Soliman(01:34) The Journey to Volunteering(03:52) Sustainable Threads Initiative(08:26) Challenges and Impact(20:36) The Power of Advertising and Visibility(20:59) Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs(22:22) Networking and Community Engagement(24:58) Upcoming Opportunities for Sustainable Threads(26:57) Reflections and Personal InsightsListen to the episode and read the transcript on www.meetthemancunian.co.uk

In the eighth episode of Season 10 of the Meet the Mancunian podcast, host Deepa Thomas-Sutcliffe speaks with Niki Banks, co-founder of One World Together. Niki shares herjourney from her academic background in global development to launching a social enterprise aimed at providing flexible funding directly to communities.  She highlights the challenges faced by small charities and community groups in obtaining long-term funding and highlights the importance of trust and local empowerment in solving community issues. Niki also discusses the impact OneWorld Together has made in Manchester, Kenya, and Zambia, and the importance of collaboration and community bonds in driving social impact. The episode ends with Niki sharing upcoming events and her thoughts on Manchester's uniquespirit for social impact work. #Community #Fundraising #Charities #GM #manchester #SocialImpact #NonProfit #podcast Did you know:  ·     Smaller charities face challenges of funding. Nearly 90% of UK funds reaching international charities go to the 77 largest charities.·     Smaller charities are often overlooked in favour of larger, well-established charities and face challenges of trust.·     Local, grassroots charities are often the ones best placed to support the most vulnerable in their communities. Key resource:One World Together Time stamps of key moments in the podcast episode &transcript:(00:56) Meet Niki Banks(01:37) Niki's Journey into Charity Work(02:55) Challenges in the Charity Sector(04:13) One World Together's Mission(07:00) Community Savers and Global Learning(09:10) Impact and Achievements(15:46) Volunteer Opportunities and EventsListen to the episode and read the transcript on www.meetthemancunian.co.uk