Announcing the Rising Voices Network for Global Majority Leaders
Kensington and Chelsea has a deep and complex history of race relations across the borough. From the murder of Kelso Cochrane and the birth of Notting Hill Carnival to migrating families and the Muslim Cultural Heritage Centre, Kensington and Chelsea is the home to people from all across the globe - coming together to form one community.
Historically, global majority communities across the borough have been failed by systematic oppression too often leading to experiences of racial discrimination and inequality.
58% of Young K&C members are led by the Global Majority.
These voluntary and community organisations create spaces for the people they work with to have access for support and build community.
However, there is still a massive underrepresentation of Global Majority leaders across the larger charity sector. With limited access to funding, and widespread exclusion from the decision-making process, Global Majority staff members in the charity sector have fewer opportunities for growth.
To counter this, the Rising Voices Network will provide an empowering space where leaders and emerging leaders from Global Majority backgrounds can come together, share experiences, and work collaboratively to disrupt entrenched inequities.
This network will serve as a platform for mutual support, collective action, and capacity building, ensuring that voluntary and community organisations led by Global Majority are empowered to thrive.
Objectives of the Rising Voices Network:
Capacity Building and Leadership Development
- Through workshops, mentorship programs, and access to funding opportunities, the network will enhance the leadership skills of Global Majority leaders .
- By fostering collaboration and peer learning, the network will build resilience and adaptability among leaders, positioning them as key stakeholders in shaping the future of the sector.
Advocacy and Influence
- The network will give Global Majority leaders a collective voice to advocate for systemic change within the VCS in Kensington and Chelsea, addressing imbalances and the marginalisation of Global Majority communities.
Building Solidarity and Community
- Through regular meetings, events, and networking opportunities, members will form strong relationships that support mental well-being, resilience, and sustainability.
Research and Evidence-Based Practice
- The network will facilitate the gathering and sharing of data on the experiences of Global Majority leaders and communities, helping to build an evidence base for targeted interventions and advocacy efforts.
- This research will be used to influence local and national policymakers, ensuring that the needs and voices of Global Majority communities are central to discussions on equity and inclusion.
STRUCTURE
- Membership: The network will be open to all leaders and emerging leaders from Young K&C membership who identify with Global Majority backgrounds.
- Member-led: Leaders and emerging leaders from Global Majority communities will guide the network's activities.
- Partnerships: The network will actively seek partnerships with organisations that share its values, both within the borough and beyond. This includes collaborating with local authorities, funders, and other advocacy groups.
- Opportunities: A range of opportunities will be provided to the network to increase the skills of the individuals and the organisations they work within, including workshops, speaking events and training.
The network will have a termly forum-style meeting for shared practice and learning. Within each term an additional opportunity will be offered to the network for personal and organisational growth.