Culture Brings Us Together
Through music, cultural events and shared experiences, we celebrate diversity, connect people across generations and create a stronger sense of belonging, building inclusive and vibrant communities where everyone feels valued.
Empowering People. Strengthening Belonging. Building Leaders. Transforming Communities.
We create inclusive opportunities for people to connect, participate, learn, lead and thrive, building confidence, supportive relationships and stronger, more connected communities.
At iAccend Initiative CIC, we create opportunities that build wellbeing, confidence, leadership, connection and inclusion. Our work helps individuals realise their potential while supporting organisations and communities to become stronger, healthier and more connected.
Mentorship & Peer Support
Mentorship and peer support create opportunities to share experiences, build confidence and develop supportive relationships.
Skills Development
Leadership and skills development equip people with practical skills, confidence and opportunities to lead, grow and thrive and support.
Hangouts and networking
Community coffee hangouts and networking bring people together in welcoming spaces to connect, build and share experiences.
Wellbeing activities
Wellbeing and community connection activities support people to feel included, connected and actively involved in their communities.
Cultural events
Community outreach, digital learning and volunteering opportunities help people develop skills, participate and make a positive contribution.
Community outreach
Community outreach, digital learning and volunteering opportunities help people develop skills, participate and make a positive contribution.
Our Volunteers
Noel
Noel is a professional storyteller and biodanza facilitator who is passionate about bringing out the best in everyone using music, movement, and group dynamics. He'll regale you with a tale and get you dancing the day and night away. He's determined to find a way of honouring our children and young people by creating an education system in which everyone can thrive.
Siyma Hussain
My experience with BIWIB as an Asian woman has been truly amazing. Through BIWIB, I have found meaningful connections with the team. I have built lasting relationships, and having a safe space where I can openly express my feelings has made such a positive difference in my life.
Today, I can simply pick up my phone and call a BIWIB woman for a chat. Every conversation leaves me feeling happier and more connected. Through this journey, BIWIB has also helped me discover a talent I never knew I had. For the first time in my life, I performed on stage during the 100 Years of Black History Month event organised by BIWIB. It was an incredibly fulfilling experience that helped me step out of my comfort zone and embrace new opportunities.
Being part of BIWIB has allowed me to connect with people from different races and cultures, learn from one another, and celebrate our differences. It has helped me realise that belonging is about more than simply being part of a group; it is about being accepted, valued, supported, and having a place where you can truly be yourself.
Shanaz
Shanaz is a retired Occupational Therapist, Menopause Champion, Healthy Living Facilitator, Expert by Experience and WRAP Advanced Facilitator, with 15 years of professional experience and a wealth of lived experience.
Her varied career has included roles in Occupational Therapy, housing, customer service and advisory services, as well as working as a Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) Officer and Volunteer Co-ordinator with the NHS, supporting more than 70 volunteers. She also holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Leadership.
Throughout her career, Shanaz has supported people to develop independence, confidence and wellbeing. Her professional journey has been shaped by her own experiences of bereavement, mental health challenges, work-related stress, chronic illness, isolation, career loss and changing identity. These experiences have strengthened her passion for wellbeing, connection, hope and challenging the stigma surrounding invisible illness.
Testimonials
Hear from women who have connected, grown and found confidence through our community.