A Tapestry of Lived Experiences
In the heart of Greater Manchester, a symphony of strength and compassion is playing out. At its core are two women, Rose Ssali and Barbara, directors at Mama Health and Poverty Partnership, who carry within them the stories of countless others. They are the voice of migrant women, Black African women, and women who have faced adversity, emerging with a fierce determination to uplift their community. This isn’t just about charity; it’s about a deep-seated commitment to justice and equity.
From Shared Struggles, a Sisterhood Emerges
Mama Health and Poverty Partnership is more than an organisation; it’s a lifeline. It’s a sisterhood, a sanctuary woven from lived experiences. Ten Black African women-led organisations, each a force in its own right, have united under a shared mission: to eradicate the intertwined evils of health inequalities and poverty that disproportionately impact their community.
“We call ourselves sisters,” Barbara shares, “because this is the family we now find in a new environment.” It’s this sense of kinship that guides their work.
Rose eloquently shares the core of their mission: “If your health is compromised, it impacts your finances, and if your finances are struggling, it impacts your health. It means you have to be overworked, without balance.” It’s a vicious cycle that migrant women often find themselves trapped in, facing systemic barriers and cultural adjustments that can feel overwhelming. They understand the nuances of this struggle, because they’ve lived it.
A Holistic Embrace: Meeting Diverse Needs
That understanding fuels their holistic approach. From supporting young girls to caring for the elderly, Mama Health and Poverty Partnership encompasses the full spectrum of a woman’s life. Operating out of six community hubs, they provide culturally appropriate services that address a multitude of needs:
- Counseling: Providing safe spaces to process trauma and build resilience.
- Language Support: Bridging communication gaps and empowering women to navigate new systems.
- Financial Literacy: Providing access to tools and knowledge to build financial stability.
- Advocacy: Amplifying voices and advocating for equitable policies.
It’s a one-stop shop, a place where women can offload their issues and receive comprehensive, tailored support.
Empowering Voices, Reclaiming Futures
But their work extends beyond immediate assistance. They are dedicated to empowering women to reclaim their voices, identities, and futures. They foster entrepreneurial spirit, supporting women in starting and growing their own businesses. They celebrate their cultural heritage, strengthening community bonds and fostering a sense of belonging. They advocate for equitable policies, challenging systemic barriers and paving the way for a more just society.
The Power to Prosper: A Shared Vision
Rose and Barbara share a passion for their organisation’s partnership with Power to Prosper. It is an opportunity to amplify community voices, and influence policy by giving a voice to women, and the systemic barriers that they experience.
A Legacy of Strength
In the voices of Rose and Barbara, one can hear the echo of generations of strength, resilience, and unwavering hope. Mama Health and Poverty Partnership is a beacon of light, demonstrating that when communities come together, everything is possible.