Our Programs
Parental Support & Advice Role:
Our Parental Support and Advice Program is specifically designed for African families in Gorton, addressing culturally relevant issues that mainstream educational centers may overlook. By helping parents embrace their cultural heritage, we support their children’s education and encourage the integration of African traditions, languages, and storytelling into learning, fostering cultural pride and identity.
- Cultural Awareness Workshops: We hold monthly workshops where parents discuss topics such as discipline, education, and family dynamics through a culturally relevant lens. These sessions explore issues like respect for elders in the Nigerian context versus more egalitarian family relationships in the UK.
- Educational Expectations: We assist parents in understanding how to navigate school-parent communication and expectations, all while honouring their cultural pride in educational achievement.
- Language and Identity: Our program supports parents in maintaining their Nigerian cultural identity and languages (such as Yoruba and Igbo) while adapting to the broader English-speaking environment.
- Partnership with Local Organisations: When issues extend beyond cultural guidance, such as mental health or legal matters, we refer families to relevant authorities or specialists. Our goal is to bridge the gap between the community and external services, like social workers or family counselling.
- Confidential Advisory Sessions: We offer one-on-one advisory sessions for parents facing specific challenges, such as cross-generational cultural conflicts, providing culturally appropriate advice in a confidential setting
Youth Mentoring Programme:
We believe young people from African immigrant families face unique challenges but also have immense potential. Our culturally focused mentoring approach is designed to bridge the gap between cultural heritage and life in a new country, helping youths navigate identity, discrimination, and societal pressures while staying true to their roots. We equip them with the tools they need to excel in school, career, and life
- Culturally focused youth mentoring program: For African youths aged 13-24 to provide guidance and support to navigate the challenges of growing up in a multicultural environment while celebrating and staying connected to their African heritage.
- One-on-One Mentoring: Our dedicated volunteer mentors, many of whom share similar backgrounds, work closely with each youth to provide guidance and support. Our mentors are professionals and community leaders who understand the balance between African cultural values and life in the UK.
- Group Workshops: We hold regular workshops on various topics, including cultural pride and identity, which help participants understand and embrace their heritage while living in the UK, and life skills and leadership focused on building self-esteem, communication skills, and leadership abilities.
- Networking Opportunities: Youth participants can connect with peers, mentors, and successful African professionals in Manchester, building valuable relationships for their future.
- Parental Involvement: We encourage active parental involvement in the mentoring process, helping families understand the educational and social dynamics in the UK while preserving important cultural values. Our support services include advice on balancing traditions with new experiences and navigating the UK’s education system
Math Tutoring and IT Support
At Igniting Possibilities, we are dedicated to helping children from African immigrant families succeed academically through our Free Math Tutoring Program. Our dedicated volunteers offer essential math assistance to these children to improve their understanding of math, boost their confidence, and enhance their overall academic performance. We also offer IT support for older parents who may struggle with modern education tools to help them navigate online learning platforms and better assist their children.
- Our volunteer-led tutoring sessions offer one-on-one or small group support, ensuring each child gets the attention they need. This program covers everything from basic math concepts to more advanced topics, such as algebra and geometry. Volunteers also help with math homework and teach study skills that will help students become more independent learners.
- This service is completely free, making it accessible to families who may need extra academic support but face financial constraints. Our volunteers bring a culturally aware approach to the tutoring sessions, recognising the unique challenges faced by children of African immigrant families in the UK.
- The program is open to children aged 7-16, and each session is tailored to the specific needs of the student. Whether your child is struggling with math or just wants to improve their skills, our volunteers are here to help them reach their full potential