Afrikindness Shortlisted for Child Friendly Leeds Awards 2026 After More Than 900 Nominations

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Leeds, 14th March 2026

Afrikindness is proud and delighted to announce that it has been shortlisted for the Overall Contribution – Third Sector category at the prestigious Child Friendly Leeds Awards 2026.

Selected from more than 900 nominations across Leeds, this recognition celebrates the outstanding contribution Afrikindness has made to improving the lives of children, young people, and families, particularly those facing poverty, inequality, discrimination, cultural barriers, and exclusion.

The shortlist is a significant milestone for Afrikindness, a community-led organisation that has rapidly become a trusted voice and support system for underrepresented communities across Leeds. Through youth empowerment, family support, safeguarding, education, inclusion, and advocacy, the organisation works tirelessly to ensure every child feels seen, heard, valued, and able to thrive.

Transforming Lives Through Community-Led Action

At the heart of Afrikindness’ work is the Afrikindness Leadership Academy, a year-long programme supporting young people aged 11–16 to develop confidence, leadership skills, resilience, and a strong sense of identity and belonging.

Currently, over 40 young people from ethnic minority and underserved communities are participating in the programme. Many face challenges associated with poverty, social isolation, language barriers, discrimination, and limited access to opportunities. Through mentoring, coaching, skills development, and youth-led activities, participants are empowered to become active citizens and future leaders.

Afrikindness also places young people’s voices at the centre of its work. Through youth-led research, consultations, and leadership opportunities, young people are encouraged to influence decisions, challenge inequalities, and contribute to creating positive change in their communities.

Supporting Families and Protecting Children

Alongside its youth programmes, Afrikindness provides extensive support for parents and families. Through safeguarding workshops, parenting conferences, mental health awareness sessions, webinars, and community conversations, families are equipped with knowledge, confidence, and practical tools to support their children.

Creating Inclusive Communities

Afrikindness has become recognised for its work promoting inclusion, positive racial identity, and cultural understanding.

During Black History Month, the organisation partnered with schools and Child Friendly Leeds to deliver workshops exploring kindness and identity. The organisation is also leading an important youth research project on race, racism, and education in partnership with York St John University and Liverpool Hope University, funded by the Institute of Social Justice. The findings will help shape future approaches to tackling racial bullying and improving educational experiences for children and young people.

Supporting Families from the Very Beginning

Afrikindness has also played an active role in Baby Week Leeds, delivering initiatives such as New Home, New Country, which supports mothers and families who are adjusting to life in the UK. Through welfare support, cultural guidance, parenting information, and community connections, families are helped to build confidence and establish strong foundations for their children’s future.

Empowering Future Citizens

Afrikindness also hosted activities as part of UK Parliament Week at Civic Hall, creating opportunities for children and young people to learn about democracy, civic engagement, leadership, and how their voices can influence change.

Contributing to the Child Friendly Leeds Wishes

Afrikindness is especially proud that its work contributes directly to several of the Child Friendly Leeds Wishes:

✨ Wish 1 – Children and young people have a greater understanding of their mental health and emotional wellbeing.

✨ Wish 2 – Children and young people have safe spaces to play, hang out and have fun.

✨ Wish 4 – Children and young people are active citizens with a voice that is heard and valued. They have a greater awareness of their rights not to be bullied or discriminated against and know what to do if it happens.

✨ Wish 8 – Leeds is a city that reduces the impact of poverty and helps families who need it.

✨ Wish 11 – Young people have access to a wide range of work experience, employment and volunteering opportunities.

✨ Wish 12 – Leeds is an inclusive city for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

A Recognition for the Community

Commenting on the announcement, Bunmi Owolabi, CEO of Afrikindness, said:

“At Afrikindness, we believe every child deserves to feel safe, valued, included, and empowered to achieve their potential. We are particularly proud to stand alongside families and communities that are often overlooked, helping to ensure their voices are heard and their experiences shape the services and opportunities available to them.

This shortlist celebrates not only what Afrikindness has achieved, but what is possible when communities come together to create lasting change for children and young people.”

As Leeds continues its journey to become the best city for children and young people to grow up in, Afrikindness remains committed to building a future where every child, regardless of background or circumstance, can flourish.

The organisation looks forward to celebrating alongside fellow finalists at the carnival-themed Child Friendly Leeds Awards ceremony later this year.