ABDULLAH OYAFAJO – ROCHDALE SIXTH FORM

My name is Abdullah from Rochdale Sixth Form and I’ve just finished my four days of work experience at the Nigerian Community Association.

The experience at Nigeria Community Association has been a very great opportunity to see how the workplace operates.

While I was there, I mainly did admin work, I helped welcome people and signed them in and I also helped to keep things organised around the organisation.

On my first day, I helped clear and sort some old items with other staff volunteers this helped with skills like communication teamwork and it has helped me build my confidence better , all staff/volunteers that i worked with were nice and polite.

Over the four days, I saw how busy it gets there. People come in for things like immigration advice, housing funds, food bank , sewing class, one to one support and other general services.

I also observed updates like the new kitchen they’re working on installing at the centre and plans for a disabled lift and ramps to allow the community centre be accessible to disabled people aswell.

What stood out to me most was just how welcoming it is. Everyone gets treated with respect and there’s a strong community feel as all types of people from diverse community are all welcomed .

Overall, it has been a good experience. I’ve learned a lot and it’s helped build my confidence.

Thanks to everyone at the Nigerian Community Association for having me.

Anumi Tibbatugea – Year 10 Whitworth Community High School

My Year 10 work experience placement at the Nigerian Community Centre has been an amazing and memorable experience. During my time there, I helped with food distribution and welcomed members of the community, allowing me to see the positive impact the centre has on so many people’s lives. The kindness, support, and sense of community shown by everyone at the centre made a lasting impression on me.

This placement has helped me build my confidence, improve my communication skills, and learn the importance of teamwork and helping others. I am very grateful for the opportunity to be involved in such meaningful work.

I would like to give a special thank you to Mrs. Mary Adekugbe, the Founder and Chair of the Nigerian Community Centre, for giving me this opportunity and for her kindness and encouragement throughout my placement. Her dedication to supporting the community is truly inspiring. Thank you to Mary and the entire team for making my work experience so enjoyable, rewarding, and unforgettable.

Neusa Xavier on Work Placement – Student University of Bolton

During my 25-hour work experience placement with the Nigeria Community Association, I had the opportunity to contribute to a range of community-based activities and gain valuable insight into the work of a voluntary organisation. The experience allowed me to develop practical skills while learning about the importance of community engagement, cultural awareness, and social inclusion.

One of the highlights of my placement was participating in cultural celebrations, including traditional dancing and engaging with members of the wider community. It was a privilege to witness the attendance of the Mayor of Rochdale at one of the events and observe his interactions with participants, which made the occasion even more special and memorable.

Volunteering with the Nigeria Community Association enabled me to develop valuable skills in leadership, organisation, teamwork, and communication. I gained confidence through working alongside volunteers and community leaders, supporting activities, and interacting with people from diverse backgrounds.

Most importantly, this experience strengthened my understanding of the importance of bringing people together, promoting inclusion, and celebrating cultural diversity within our communities. It highlighted the positive impact that community organisations can have in supporting individuals and fostering a sense of belonging.

Overall, my placement with the Nigeria Community Association was a rewarding and enriching experience that contributed significantly to both my personal growth and professional development. I would like to express my sincere gratitude Dr Mary and everyone at the Association for their support, encouragement, and dedication to serving the community. I am truly thankful for the opportunity and look forward to supporting future events and initiatives whenever possible.

I would highly recommend volunteering with the Nigeria Community Association to anyone interested in community work, cultural engagement, and making a meaningful difference within the wider community.

Celebrating Africa’s Rich Culture, Heritage, Unity and Diversity

On Monday, 25th May 2026, our community proudly celebrated Africa Day at the Community Centre in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, embracing the beauty, diversity, and rich cultural heritage of the many African nations represented within our local community.

The vibrant event brought together community leaders, dignitaries, organisations, business owners, performers, volunteers, and residents from diverse backgrounds to honour African culture, traditions, music, fashion, food, and unity.

Among the distinguished guests in attendance were the Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale, Councillor Faisal Rana and Mrs Iram Rana, alongside the King’s Representative, Muzahid Khan MBE DL (Deputy Lieutenant). Also present were Councillor Elizabeth Atewologun; Councillor Dr Sherita, Founder of Dumobi Disability Trust Foundation; Omolabake Ibadin, Founder of Steered to Serve; Elder Robert Omoniyi; Hajia Olayinka Oseni, Founder of The International Community Life Help Centre; Allan Mandindi, Founder of Malawi Heritage UK; representatives from Exceptional Ladies UK; Pastor Ben Susan (WOHIMCO); Bolu, Founder of Migrant Haven; Ibukun, Founder of Harvest Touch Youth & Skills Hub CIC; Oyovwe Kigho, Founder of Widow Empowerment Trust; and Mr Tim, Founder of Darocam Studio CIC.

African business owners from across Rochdale also attended to support and grace the occasion.

As part of the celebration, guests enjoyed a rich selection of traditional African cuisines from various African countries, including:

• Jollof Rice – Africa’s universally loved delicacy
• Amala and Ewedu from Nigeria
• Plasas from Sierra Leone
• Domoda from The Gambia

A special highlight of the event was the presentation of 39 African flags, symbolising the unity and diversity of the African continent. Although representatives from 14 African countries were physically present at this year’s celebration, the organisers expressed their hope of welcoming even more countries and communities to future Africa Day events.

The cultural showcase featured Africans and friends of Africa dressed in beautiful traditional and culturally inspired attire, representing countries including Sierra Leone, Eritrea, Liberia, Angola, The Gambia, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Libya, Mozambique, Kenya, and Uganda.

Through music, storytelling, dance, fashion, and cultural exchange, the celebration reflected the traditions, identities, values, and pride that make Africa truly extraordinary. The atmosphere was electric, the music was phenomenal, and the dance floor was filled with joy as attendees celebrated together in unity, friendship, and happiness.

The organisers extend their heartfelt appreciation to all supporters, dignitaries, partners, volunteers, organisations, community leaders, performers, DJs, stallholders, and exhibitors whose contributions helped make the event such a remarkable success.

Africa Day in Rochdale continues to serve as a powerful platform for promoting cultural understanding, inclusion, community cohesion, and the celebration of African excellence throughout Greater Manchester and beyond.

Together, we celebrate Africa – its people, culture, heritage, achievements, and future.