On Friday morning I headed out to East London to the Bromley by Bow Health Centre. In one of the poorer communities of London with a strong cultural diversity, they have brought together a number of community services in a creative way that focuses on holistic wellbeing and empowerment. It is a place where young and old come together, whether to see the doctor, visit the employment office, receive training or join the creche. There are a number of quiet spaces in the gardens as well as play ground areas for local youth. Most of all, it makes one think of all the potential in focusing energy and efforts in a beautiful space.
A wide range of services as well as support for careers and micro-enterprise.
A beautiful green atrium leading into the health services area.
Moving on from Bromley by Bow, I headed to Hoxton to a very different type of project but with a community focus all the same.
The Hoxton Apprentice is a bar and restaurant at first glance, but so much more when you see what is going on behind the scenes.
"Dining with a difference: by using this restaurant, you are helping to give long term unemployed people a second change. We give them skills, pay them while they are learning then help them find permanent jobs. We plough 100% of our net profit back into the charity."
It was great to chat to Naima to learn more about the project and also the Community Kitchen she is involved in which focuses on teaching youth and their parents healthy cooking skills.
Another great initiative worth checking out is Umzi Wethu in South Africa (see here for a short video). This initiative combines wilderness experience and mentoring with comprehensive training in conservation or catering sectors with a focus on job placement.
Whether at home or abroad, it is inspiring to see initiatives underway that creatively place community and wellbeing at the heart of their business.
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