I am a daughter and second generation, descended of parents who originated from Jamaica. Born on 03/03/1963 and raised in Rusholme, Manchester, UK. Aged 16 I became a member of Abasindi Black Women’s Co-operative, sharing a 30 year relationship since 1979. From this formidable experience I gained many skills by undertaking the roles of: ‘Abasindi Pan-African Drummers & Dancers’: Performer, Choreographer and Workshop facilitator in dance music, Chair-Person & administrator. The experience enabled expressing cultural creativity with people in local, national and international arenas. ‘Abasindi Black Women’s Co-operative’ Summer School organiser & assistant teacher.
As an activist, I co/co-ordinated on various projects and programmes. As a member of The National Black Caucus planning committee I negotiated and organised the 1st Cultural Edutainment Events & Workshops for NBC’s 2nd Annual Weekend in Conference in 1981. The skills attained, enabled both the courage and confidence to return to education and access both voluntary and paid employment. This involved co-ordinating and supporting roles in Events and Education/Training programmes e.g working as a Women’s Development Co-coordinator for Moss Side and Hulme Women’s Action Forum on courses such as Women into Media and the first Women in to Construction Course outside of London.
I was also invited to co-ordinate the first ‘Celebrate 98’ Festival in Whalley Range, Manchester. On a previous course placement, I volunteered with MCC’s Manchester Festival in from 1990. This led to paid employment from 1991 to 1994 and also included the 2002 XVII Commonwealth Games Manchester. A mature student, I hold a 1st Class Degree in Events Management, additionally being awarded for ‘Contribution to the Course’. Other qualifications include Information Advice and Guidance (I.A.G.) to assist my current Job as Learning Support Advisor for Manchester Adult Education Service. Since 2013 to present, I’ve also enjoyed being a Community Radio DJ/Presenter “Queen Nia” on Radio Diamond