Ekua has been with us a few weeks now and Volunteers on our helpline every week responding to families in need and more recently taking on another role to support with some administrative duties.
A little bit about Ekua in her words...
I’m an artist. I’m always working! But the last paid job was a commission to create a unique sculpture for a garden in Rusholme. I’d paid for the wood but had to cancel the delivery. I’m hoping my studio will reopen and I can start working on it again in the next week or two.
I’m in the Labour Party and the Councillor candidate for Hulme. But I spent quite a bit of time in Ardwick supporting the amazing Councillor Amna Abdullatif. I watched the work she was doing and was really inspired. I also am part of a much smaller mutual aid group that covers the few streets where I live. It’s much less busy and I wanted to do more.
Ekua delivering Easter Eggs to Neighbours
Volunteering Activities...
I answer the phone line for the Food Parcels on Fridays 10-3pm.
It is such a satisfying thing to do, knowing you can give such practical assistance. Really feel part of the team. After I get the info, I share it with the team who packs the parcels and then they liaise with the deliverers. You get to watch the whole process happen via WhatsApp groups! Such a smooth operation!
My highlight of working with Ardwick and Longsight Mutual Aid Group so far...
I love the Friday evening well being check ins on Zoom. Getting to know the other volunteers and hearing about how they will take time off at the weekends.
To anyone wanting to Volunteer...
Just do it!
These are lovely people.You get loads of support and there’s always someone checking up that you’re ok. No one ever takes you for granted and you’ll feel brilliant knowing you’re helping people so directly.
To see some of Ekua's wonderful artwork and sculptures please take a look below at the article links:
Art511 Magazine article
Rebirth Exhibition article by local writer Pete Kalu http://www.peterkalu.com/uncategorized/ekua-bayunu-rebirth-exhibition-500-word-review-by-pete-kalu/
If you would like to find out more, here is Ekua's Instagram @ekuabay
Thank you Ekua for your continuous support to multiple communities and thank you to everyone at Ardwick and Longsight Mutual Aid Group.
To anyone wanting to get involved and volunteer in Ardwick, Longsight and West Gorton, please email Laura.Cassidy@gmmh.nhs.uk
Twitter: @AandLmutual_aid
Facebook: Ardwick And Longsight Covid Mutual Aid Group
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