The ‘Home from Home’ project aims to explore the legacies of pioneering British Nigerians in the UK and their impact on society. The project highlights and celebrates British Nigerian contributions to the cultural, political, educational, artistic, spiritual, and sporting life of Britain and London, in particular. In this interview we feature Sandra Igwe, Founder and CEO of The Motherhood Group.
Who is Sandra Igwe?
I am Sandra, the founder of The Motherhood Group, a social enterprise dedicated to supporting the Black maternal experience in the UK. As a passionate campaigner and advocate for Black maternal health, I strive to create a platform that empowers, educates, and uplifts Black mothers. The Motherhood Group coordinates the annual Black Maternal Health Conference UK, which brings together the community of Black British mothers, stakeholders, industry professionals, policy advisers, and charity CEOs. We also organize the annual Black Maternal Mental Health Week to highlight the disparities that Black mothers face in the UK. Born to Nigerian parents from Imo State (Igbo), I take great pride in my heritage and work tirelessly to promote the well-being of Black mothers and their families. Listed as Vogue and Forbes top influential and inspiring woman.
What does “Home From Home” mean to you?
To me, “Home From Home” represents the sense of belonging and connection I feel to my Nigerian roots, even though I was born and raised in the UK. It’s about embracing and celebrating the cultural values, traditions, and experiences that have shaped my identity as a British Nigerian. It’s the comfort of finding familiarity in a country that may not always feel like home. I make it a point to travel back to Nigeria as often as I can, and I also bring my children, who were born here, to experience Nigerian culture first-hand.
How do you celebrate your Nigerian heritage?
I celebrate my Nigerian heritage by staying connected to my family, both in the UK and back in Nigeria. I enjoy cooking traditional Nigerian dishes, listening to Nigerian music, and attending cultural events. Through The Motherhood Group, I also strive to incorporate elements of my heritage into our programs and initiatives, sharing the richness of our culture with the mothers we support. Traveling to Nigeria with my children is another way I celebrate and pass on our heritage to the next generation.
What does being “British Nigerian” mean to you?
Being British Nigerian means navigating two distinct cultures and identities, and finding a way to harmoniously blend them together. It’s about embracing the best of both worlds – the opportunities and experiences that come with being British, while holding onto the values, traditions, and pride that come with my Nigerian heritage. It’s a unique and beautiful fusion that shapes who I am and how I raise my children, ensuring they appreciate and value both their British and Nigerian roots.
How do you stay connected to your identity?
I stay connected to my identity by maintaining strong ties with my family and the Nigerian community in the UK. I actively seek out opportunities to engage with Nigerian culture, whether through attending events, participating in discussions, or supporting Nigerian-owned businesses. The Motherhood Group also serves as a platform for me to celebrate and share my identity with others. Traveling to Nigeria and immersing myself and my family in the culture is another powerful way I stay connected to my identity.*What does culture mean to you?
Culture, to me, is the essence of who we are as individuals and as a community. It encompasses our values, beliefs, traditions, and ways of life. It’s the thread that binds us together, providing a sense of belonging and identity. Culture is not static; it evolves and adapts as we do, but it always remains a fundamental part of our being. As a mother, I believe it is crucial to pass on our cultural heritage to our children, ensuring they understand and appreciate their roots.
What do you imagine the future of the British Nigerian Community to look like in the next few years based on your industry?
In the coming years, I envision a British Nigerian community that is more visible, vocal, and influential in the maternal health space. I believe that through the efforts of organizations like The Motherhood Group, we will see increased awareness and understanding of the unique challenges faced by Black mothers in the UK. I hope to see more culturally sensitive and inclusive maternal health services, as well as a greater representation of British Nigerian professionals in the field. By working together and supporting one another, we can create a future where Black mothers and their families thrive. The Black Maternal Health Conference UK and Black Maternal Mental Health Week will continue to play crucial roles in driving this change.
Follow and find Sandra:
– Website: www.themotherhoodgroup.org // www.sandraigwe.com
– Instagram: @themotherhoodgroup /// @sandeeigwe
– Twitter: @motherhoodgroup /// @sandeeigwe
Watch her TedxTalk Here:
