Tameside Celebrates West African Community
Staff and the people we support from two of our services in Tameside came together for a vibrant West African-themed party, celebrating staff with Nigerian and Ghanaian heritage. As the sun beamed down, spirits were high at what became their biggest joint event yet.
Throughout the morning, gold and green balloons were blown up in the back garden, while Ghanaian and Nigerian flags were draped along the fences. James kindly helped staff set up the balloon arch, excited for the festivities.
Guests were greeted with handmade traditional Nigerian garments, thanks to the incredible Ope, a Support Worker. On a recent visit to Nigeria, Ope purchased brightly coloured fabrics from the bustling Oshodi market in Lagos. Using her sewing machine, she crafted headscarves, shirts, and dresses for everyone.
“I was half joking that I’d love to sew something for everyone, but then I got a text asking if I needed everyone’s sizes!” Ope shared. “It means a lot to celebrate my culture in a different country and to have others try our delicacies and experience our traditions.”
West-African traditional clothing varies by ethnic group. Yoruba wear the Agbada, a flowing robe, while Igbo wear the Isiagu, a patterned shirt often paired with trousers. James was especially excited about his outfit, and posed for pictures with Support Worker Ngozi and friends.
Not only did Ope make everyone look fabulous, she fired up the barbecue and served up a delicious spread of turkey, chicken, sweetcorn, and Tilapia marinated in garlic and ginger and grilled to perfection. Guests lined up with jollof rice on paper plates before Ope loaded them up.
“Everyone loves sizzling food in Nigeria,” said Ope, flipping a charred fish.
After lunch, Service Manager Sancha led a fun general knowledge quiz about African countries. Participants answered by standing next to the correct flag. “We want the people we support to experience different cultures,” Sancha said. “Today is about inclusion and celebrating our staff. We’ve had barbecues before, but never a party on this scale.”
Guests from other services joined the party too. Sarah wore a stylish party outfit, while Simon shared, “I’m having a good time.” Antony added, “It’s a positive event with great food. I like that we get to keep the new clothes.”
Later in the afternoon, Operations Manager Diane Burrow Service Director Leigh Birch dropped in for a taste of the barbecue and joined in the dancing as the boombox blasted tunes.
Reflecting on the day, Support Worker Mark said, “This event gives me a feeling of nostalgia, bringing back memories of my childhood. It’s a way to recreate that West African atmosphere with new friends in a new place, and it’s a way to celebrate our team.”
