Sudanese Women Group

Building Community Leadership with the Sudanese Community

At QPCO, one of the most important parts of our work is supporting communities to come together, organise, and lead their own ideas. Through our Primary Group and Building Capacity programme, we’re working alongside members of the Sudanese community to help turn their vision into action.

During a recent session, community members gathered to reflect, share ideas, and begin shaping what they want their group to become. Using large planning sheets and group discussions, they explored key themes that matter most to them: recreation, education, and heritage.

These ideas came directly from the community themselves. They discussed activities that could support women, young people, and families, create opportunities for learning and wellbeing, and celebrate the rich culture and history of Sudan. Conversations included ideas such as:

• Recreation and wellbeing activities for women and young people

• Education support and learning opportunities

• Celebrating Sudanese culture, traditions, music, and heritage

• Creating spaces for connection, belonging, and community support

This process is at the heart of our Primary Group approach. Rather than designing programmes for communities, we work with them to co-create initiatives that reflect their priorities, culture, and aspirations.

Building capacity means supporting groups to develop the skills, confidence, and structure needed to lead their own activities and sustain them long into the future. By empowering communities to organise, plan, and grow together, we help create stronger networks, new opportunities, and lasting positive change.

It was inspiring to see the passion, ideas, and commitment in the room. This is just the beginning of the journey, and we’re excited to continue supporting the Sudanese community as they develop their group and bring their plans to life.

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