You already have the power to change. That’s the truth that’s been echoing through our community for years – and it’s a power you can actively cultivate with just a few simple steps.
As Black History Month 2025 approaches its final article in our series, we’re focusing on what truly matters: taking action. This isn’t about grand gestures or distant goals. It’s about the practical, immediate steps you can take to join The Community Revolution and begin building your community power.
Why this moment matters for you
In Nottingham, where our community is as diverse as the stories we tell, there’s a growing need for practical support that acknowledges your unique background while empowering you to take meaningful action. TCR operates with a clear understanding that African Caribbean communities have deep historical roots in the UK – particularly in Nottingham – while other African descent communities bring distinct traditions and experiences that enrich our collective journey.
This isn’t about simple categorisation. It’s about recognising the specific pathways that have worked for different communities and creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
Your first step: Joining TCR with confidence
We’ve designed a beginner-friendly pathway that takes just 10 minutes to get started:
- Sign up for our newsletter – This is the simplest way to stay connected with our community. You’ll receive updates about upcoming programmes, events, and opportunities that match your interests and background.
- Join our digital skills research study – This is a great way to gain practical digital skills while contributing to our community. The study is designed specifically for people from minority backgrounds who want to build their digital literacy without technical jargon.
- Become a volunteer – If you’re interested in community work, TCR offers volunteer opportunities that match your skills and interests. Our volunteers help shape the community through practical actions, not just theoretical concepts.
Each step is designed with your context in mind. For example, if you’re from a West African community, you might benefit from our specific digital literacy training that connects with your cultural background. If you’re from a North African community, you might find our networking events particularly helpful.
How Kujichagulia (self-determination) helps you take action
Black History Month 2025’s theme of “Standing Firm in Power and Pride” is deeply connected to Kwanzaa’s principle of Kujichagulia – self-determination. This isn’t just a theoretical concept; it’s a practical framework that helps you take action in your community.
For example, in our Nottingham community, Kujichagulia means understanding that you have the right to make decisions about your community. It means having the tools and support to implement changes that matter to you.
This is where TCR comes in. We work with communities to co-create solutions that address challenges facing beneficiaries. This approach ensures that your voice is heard and your needs are met.
Real stories of empowerment
Like Lydia from Ghana, who benefited from TCR’s programme of advisory services to help make her community organisation ready to win funding and investment opportunities, she now has the systems in place to ensure she has the necessary data when opportunities arise.
Another example is James from Nigeria, who joined our digital skills study and now uses his new skills to create a community platform that connects young people from different African backgrounds in Nottingham.
These stories aren’t isolated incidents. They’re proof that when we give people the tools and support they need, real change happens.
Why Nia (Purpose) and Umoja (Unity) matter
As we work to build your power, we also incorporate two key Kwanzaa principles:
- Nia (Purpose) – This helps you understand what matters most in your community and why it’s important to take action
- Umoja (Unity) – This connects you with others in your community who share similar goals and experiences
- Ubuntu (I am because we are) – This reminds us that individual strength comes from collective well-being
These principles work together to create a powerful framework for community action that’s both practical and deeply meaningful.
Taking the next step
You don’t need to be perfect to start. The most important thing is that you take the first step. That’s why we’re offering a free 60-second community engagement session that’s designed specifically for beginners.
This session will help you:
- Understand how TCR works with communities
- See the practical steps you can take to join programmes
- Get answers to your questions about community empowerment
Take 60 seconds to sign up for our free community engagement session here: [Link to TCR’s sign-up page]
This is your moment to take action. You already have the power to change – now it’s time to use it.
Remember: True empowerment comes from taking action, not just talking about it. Start with one step today, and watch how your community power grows.
Together, we stand firm in power.
