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Leeds, 14th March 2026
Afrikindness proudly delivered a culturally responsive safeguarding training session at the NCL Women’s Group event in celebration of International Women’s Day, bringing together women from diverse backgrounds to learn, connect, and celebrate shared achievements.
The session, led by Afrikindness CEO Bunmi Owolabi, focused on equipping women with practical knowledge and confidence to safeguard children within their families and communities. The training addressed critical areas including child protection, recognising signs of abuse and neglect, and understanding the legal and cultural context surrounding physical chastisement in the UK.
Participants engaged actively throughout the session, contributing thoughtful questions and reflections drawn from lived experiences.
Key discussions explored how cultural beliefs intersect with safeguarding responsibilities, how to identify early warning signs of harm, and how to navigate support systems effectively. A safeguarding quiz was also incorporated to reinforce learning in an interactive and engaging way, helping participants consolidate their understanding.
The event put together by the NCL Women’s Group Leader, Mary Appleton and team, created a safe and empowering space for women to come together—not only to gain vital knowledge but also to build connections, share experiences, and celebrate resilience and progress within their communities.
A highlight of the event was the presence of special guest and keynote speaker, Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa OON, CEO/Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM). Her attendance underscored the global influence and contributions of Nigerians in the UK and beyond. In her keynote address, she emphasized the importance of child safety within diaspora communities, urging collective responsibility in protecting children and upholding their rights.
The event was hosted by Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, whose leadership helped create an inclusive and impactful platform for dialogue and learning.
Marking more than a celebration, the gathering served as a call to action—reinforcing the importance of safeguarding as a shared responsibility. The conversations continued the following day at a town hall meeting held at the Leeds Civic Hall, where community members further explored safeguarding challenges and solutions within their local context.
Afrikindness remains committed to advancing culturally competent safeguarding practices, particularly within underrepresented communities. Events like this highlight the critical need for ongoing education, open dialogue, and community-led approaches to ensure that every child is protected, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.
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