This week, participants from the B:CAN Community Leadership Accelerator Programme took part in an enriching visit to London, deepening their understanding of leadership, policy, and community organising, on both a national and local scale. 

The day began with a guided tour of the Houses of Parliament, offering the cohort a unique opportunity to explore the heart of the UK’s political system. The group gained valuable insight into how policy is developed and implemented on a national scale and developed a deeper understanding of the history and evolution of government.  

A key highlight of the visit was an inspiring session with Erdington MP Paulette Hamilton, who spoke about her own leadership journey and encouraged participants to follow their passions and pursue leadership roles that can make a difference in their communities. 

Waheed Saleem, Head of Programmes and Partnership said “The visit was part of the Community Leadership Accelerator programme, which is funded through the National Lottery Community Fund to test and learn approaches to elevate community power. “ 

I would like to extend my thanks to Paulette Hamilton, MP for hosting the visit to the House of Parliament and for taking time out of her busy schedule to talk to the group.” 

The visit to East London gave a real insight into how community organising can have a positive impact, by bringing together different communities around a shared purpose. The group enjoyed the visit to St George in the East, where they engaged in discussions on community organising” 

Over lunch the group reflecting on what they learned on their visit to Parliament and made their way to visit St. George in the East to learn more about the principles of broad-based community organising and youth engagement strategies. Through discussions with Davina Bacon, Community Organiser and Jon Hart, Trainee Vicar, who shared their own leadership roles within the organisation, participants discussed the importance of grassroots action, building meaningful one-to-one relationships, and identifying shared interests and values as a basis for collective action. 

“[This] programme and London visit has provided me with plenty of opportunities to reflect on my community organising role and grow as a young leader.”, said Zuzanna Kiewel, Community Organiser at POMOC and programme participant. 

“I had an opportunity to hear from experienced organisers making big changes for their communities. The key thing I’ll carry forward, is the importance of storytelling and deepening relationships to sustain long-term social change.” 

The visit concluded with a reflective group discussion, where participants shared insights from the day and considered how these lessons could be applied within their own organisations surrounding themes of youth engagement, community organising, and effective campaigning. 

Opportunities like this are a vital part of the programme, supporting participants to grow in confidence and reflect on their own individual community power.