Hear Our Stories
FundersGet to know the Babbasa Supporters…
City Of Change Partner: Torchbox
We are delighted to introduce Torchbox who has supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign?The City of Change campaign is an exciting opportunity for us to give back to the local community, at...
City Of Change Partner: Phil Hodgson – Arup
We are delighted to introduce Phil Hodgson from Arup who has supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign?Arup in Bristol decided to join the City of Change campaign to connect with local young people,...
City Of Change Partner: The Team – Enviral
We are delighted to introduce Enviral who have supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign? It’s a challenging time for young people trying to start out in marketing and communications,...
City Of Change Partner: Sue Mountstevens – Avon and Somerset Police Department
We are delighted to introduce Avon and Somerset Police who have supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign? It’s a good opportunity to bring fresh and young talent into the organisation. It allows...
City Of Change Partner: Cas Stow – Fourth Floor
We are delighted to introduce Fourth Floor who have supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign? We want to support positive change for Bristol and we want Fourth Floor to better represent the...
City Of Change Partner: Jenny Foster – Global Goals Centre
We are delighted to introduce Global Goals Centre who have supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign? We know what value having young, diverse voices involved in the creation of content for the...
City Of Change Partner: Hayley Schwab – Hargreaves Lansdown
We are delighted to introduce Hargreaves Lansdown who have supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign? At Hargreaves Lansdown, we believe in building a diverse and inclusive workforce not just...
City Of Change Partner: Caroline Clark – KETS Quantum
We are delighted to introduce KETS Quantum who have supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign? We joined the City Of Change campaign because it offers us a way of connecting with young people in Bristol...
City Of Change Partner: Elaine Williams – Icon Films
We are delighted to introduce Icon Films who have supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign? Icon Films has worked with Babbasa for many years and through them we have been introduced to many...
City Of Change Partner: Penny Warner – Team Love
We are delighted to introduce Team Love who have supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign? Team Love are inspired by bringing people together through festivals and events across Bristol and beyond. Our...
City Of Change Partner: Izzy Francke – Channel 4
We are delighted to introduce Channel 4 who have supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign? Babbasa is such an incredible and important organisation and at the forefront of engaging young people...
City Of Change Partner: Adam Cantwell-Corn – The Bristol Cable
We are delighted to introduce The Bristol Cable who have supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign? The Cable started from a front room in 2014. But we had a lot of support from...
City Of Change Partner: The Community Farm
We are delighted to introduce The Community Farm who have supported us through our City Of Change campaign. Why did you decide to join the City Of Change campaign? A core part of The Community Farm's ethos is to bring people onto our land. The events of this year have...
City Of Change Partner: Chelsea Dow – LettUsGrow
We are delighted to introduce Chelsea Dow, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through LettUsGrow. Why did you join the City Of Change campaign? We have hosted Babbasa placements before and really enjoyed it. Our team is always looking to share knowledge and...
City Of Change Partner: Fiona Spence – Sirona Care and Health
We are delighted to introduce Fiona Spence, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through Sirona Care and Health. Why did you join the City Of Change campaign? Sirona care & health are a not-for-profit social enterprise, providing NHS funded adult and...
City Of Change Partner: Evelyn Timson – Aspect Film and Video
We are delighted to introduce Evelyn Timson, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through Aspect Film and Video. Why did you join the City Of Change campaign? We decided to join City of Change because we identified some time ago that we have very few...
City Of Change Partner: George Cook – Avon Wildlife Trust
We are delighted to introduce George Cook, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through Avon Wildlife Trust. Why did you join the City Of Change campaign? The City Of Change campaign aims to do important things in Bristol and I wanted to get involved to help...
City Of Change Partner: Helena Berglund – True To Nature
We are delighted to introduce Helena Berglund, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through True To Nature. Why did you join the City Of Change campaign? We felt that joining ‘City of Change’ gave us an exciting opportunity to work with Babbasa on...
City Of Change Partner: Katie Dominy – Soil Association
We are delighted to introduce Katie Dominy, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through Soil Association. Why did you join the City Of Change campaign? We had an exciting short-term opportunity which we believe offers a creative, events and community driven...
City Of Change Partner: Felicity Aris – Arkbound Publishing
We are delighted to introduce Felicity Aris, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through Arkbound Publishing. Why did you join the City Of Change campaign? It is a great opportunity to support the local community and to collaborate with an important and...
City Of Change Partner: Stephanie Oxenham – ForrestBrown
We are delighted to introduce Stephanie Oxenham, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through ForrestBrown. Why did you join the City Of Change campaign? At ForrestBrown we believe in equal opportunities for everyone, and we are in a great position to help...
City Of Change Partner: Jessica Gitsham – Natracare
We are delighted to introduce Jessica Gitsham, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through Natracare. Why did you join the City Of Change campaign? It’s eye opening hearing about Babbasa’s work and it makes us realise how a small effort from our part...
City Of Change Partner: Nick Hounsfield – The Wave
We are delighted to introduce Nick Hounsfield, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through The Wave. Why did you decide to join the campaign? When we heard about the City Of Change: Youth Challenge, we knew we just had to get involved! It's great to see the...
“There are many times that I feel like Babbasa has gone above and beyond for me” – Trailblazer launches clothing brand
Tanaka’s dreams of owning his own business brought him to Babbasa in 2016. Since then, he has made the leap from Youth Ambassador to entrepreneur and Trailblazer. At a time where so many projects came to a sudden stop, 26-year-old Tanaka Chigwada started his own...
Award winning musician creates star studded single to raise money for organisations supporting young Black people.
We spoke to Rachel Mason, an Ambassador here at Babbasa, about her new single, Black Lives Matter, and the importance of supporting young Black people. Written by Rachel Mason, 24th November, 2020. I’m a multi award winning musician, vocal teacher,...
Babbasa launches The #BridgeToEquality Report
Most young people in Bristol feel increasingly fearful about their future despite having high aspirations and the motivation to succeed, new research reveals. The Bridge To Equality report, published by the youth empowerment social enterprise Babbasa highlights...
City Of Change Partner: Amy Twomey – Off the Fence
We are delighted to introduce Amy Twomey, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through Off the Fence. Can you tell us who you are, a little bit about you, and your professional background? I'm Amy, the Production Manager at Off the Fence. I work in a team at...
Partner of the Week: LettUs Grow
We are delighted to introduce Chelsea Dow, Dan Peel and Jack Farmer, who have supported our work through LettUs Grow. Can you tell us who you are, a little bit about you, and your professional background? I’m Chelsea, the People and Culture Manager at LettUs Grow. I...
Trailblazers – Cameron’s Story
My name is Cameron Luke Powell. I heard about Babbasa through my mother back when it had first started out and I was not long out of school. I remember attending their Empowered Event, the first Ask About Me event and Change 300 Futures. It helped me greatly...
Trailblazers – Beth’s Story
My name’s Bethany, I’m 25 and I’m a diverse social media marketer and digital copywriter. I found out about Babbasa by going to an Ask About Me event in April 2019 and then signed up to be a Youth Ambassador in the Challenge Programme Autumn 2019 cohort. I...
Trailblazers – Maheen’s Story
I am Maheen Shah and I am 19 years old. Currently I am a student at the University of Bristol, studying Chilldhood Studies MSci. I heard about Babbasa through Michelle and Pravanya. During my time with Babbasa, we managed to get over 100 young people into some...
Trailblazers – Osei’s Story
My names Osei Johnson and I’ve just turned 25. I am currently doing a course at Bristol Old Vic called ‘Made in Bristol’. I also work for an artist support community called BLACK* Artists on the Move, among a dozen or so other things. My main hobbies are...
Trailblazers – Nehanda’s Story
My name is Nehanda Ngozi and I'm 17 years old. I’m currently at college studying Business but some of my hobbies include cooking, baking and writing. My mum told me about Babbasa because I was struggling to find work and I needed direction on what to to do meet...
Trailblazers – Tanaka’s Story
My name is Tanaka and I’m 26. Some of my interests include fashion, film, music and football. I first heard of Babbasa through a friend, I was seeking out a mentor at the time as I felt that I was lacking in the necessary mentorship to help me find great...
Trailblazers – Rasheed’s Story
I heard about Babbasa through my aunt. I filled out an application and spoke to Pravanya extensively after this. She told me that Babbasa is somewhere that is very aligned to things I am looking for, and it is. Since joining I have attended many development...
Trailblazers – Leila’s Story
My name is Leila Kikuchi-House and I’m 20 years old. I’m currently studying psychology at the University of Bristol, and I’m head of features for UBTV, the independent student-run YouTube channel. My favourite hobby is yoga for its physical, emotional and...
Trailblazers – Gloria’s Story
My name is Gloria T Gomo and I am 26 years old. I’m currently working as an Accounts Assistant Administrator and enjoy travelling, cooking, interior design. When I think about the things I enjoy about Bristol, I think of activities that unity the city, like...
Ruth’s Mentoring Story
Having recently secured a job in the pharmaceutical industry, Ruth reflects on the impact of Babbasa's mentoring scheme in helping her achieve her goals. My name is Ruth Gbao and I’m 17 years old. At the moment I’m in my last year of sixth form doing my...
Lashawn’s Mentoring Story
Having recently secured a job as a Production Management Assistant at the BBC, Lashawn reflects on the impact of Babbasa's mentoring scheme in helping her achieve her goals. My name is Lashawn and I am 20 years old. I first heard of Babbasa through a...
Keenan’s Story
My name’s Keenan Lawrence and I’m 23. I’ve been out of uni for about a year and when I first left I was working part time as a fashion stylist. When the first lockdown happened, I took it upon my self to start an agency in web design, SEO, content...
Grace’s Story
Grace discusses her experiences as a young creative working with PAPER Arts, and the influence of Babbasa's mentors My name's Grace Sodzi and I'm 23. PAPER Arts has been around for about six years now and I actually first came into contact with them in 2015. I was a...
Kaden’s Story
My name’s Kaden Gardener and at the moment I am creating my video content while looking for paid work and opportunities within the media industry, specifically within video editing. In my spare time I like to listen to and create music, play video games and hanging...
Leila’s Story
Leila reflects on her time as a Youth Ambassador working on the City of Change Campaign: While doing the campaign I noticed how it kept my head above water and helped me reflect on my own life so much because I was thinking about other people. It offered me a...
Ella’s Story
Ella discusses her time as a Youth Ambassador and the impact of City of Change: I find that often when communicating with large organisations and businesses, young people are invited to the table to offer "a younger perspective" (often for free), but the...
Sarah’s Story
Reflecting on my Experiences as a Youth Ambassador During COVID-19 Written by: Sarah Anisah Nabi When I initially signed up as a Youth Ambassador with Babbasa, I had no idea what to expect. I knew the project that we’d be working on was to create workplace...
Rasheed’s Story
My name is Rasheed I am 23. I am currently the Communications and Engagement intern in the Mayor’s Office. My friends would describe me as funny, a typical Scorpio and loving. I enjoy creative writing, song writing, story writing and I like to play the piano. I...
Esther’s Story
My name is Esther and I'm 23 years old. I’m currently working. My hobbies are binge watching Netflix series and going to the cinema and my goal is become a successful film producer. The last challenge I had to overcome was pitching an idea to a group of...
Lashawn’s Story
My name is Lashawn Binns, I am 20 years old and at the moment I am looking to gain more experience in the TV/Film industry as well as job that will further my career in this industry. Some of my hobbies include reading, I have always loved a good fantasy book,...
Trailblazer – Rema: My Story
"Named one of the most influential people in Bristol under the age of 24 by Rife Magazine in 2019, I’m a multi-faceted creative, presenter, award winning journalist and artist. I’m the Facebook Community Reporter for Bristol Live, working closely with communities...
Babbasa is presented the prestigious queen’s award for enterprise for transforming the lives of young people from ethnic minority & low-income backgrounds by HRH, The Countess of Wessex.
Bristol’s youth empowerment social enterprise, Babbasa was presented with the UK’s highest business accolade for Promoting Opportunity through social mobility by HRH Countess of Wessex, as its Youth Ambassadors launch an urgent campaign, City Of Change, challenging...
Focus Groups allow everyone to assess and reflect on our major industries
Written by Olu Osinoiki: 23rd November, 2020 Currently I work as a freelance Photographer, Videographer & Creative Director at Olumedia but I aspire to run my own TV company one day. I decided to take part in Babbasa’s Natural History focus group as I’m...
What we can all collectively do to produce change for the future
Written by Gail El-Halaby: 14th October, 2020 When I first learned about Babbasa, I fell in love with the ethos, and what Babbasa were striving to achieve. To have the opportunity to work within a team so passionate, involved and motivated in bringing about positive...
Hamza’s story
"My name is Hamza. I was born and raised in Bristol. I am the oldest of 3 siblings from a Pakistani background. I am seen as hard-working, resilient and organised by the people I work with. I take a lot of motivation and inspiration from television shows and movies...
City Of Change Partner: Emily Lascelles – Silverback Films
We are delighted to introduce Emily Lascelles, who has supported our City Of Change campaign through Silverback Films. Why did you decide to the join the campaign? We were very aware that, in Covid times, so many young peoples work experiences had been cancelled. We...
Theresa’s story
"I'm Theresa and I’ve grown up in the UK, my parents are from Ghana and I go there occasionally to see family, which I love. I would say I’m fairly confident and very friendly, but I’m sure my friends would most definitely describe me as dramatic because I love...
Partner of the Week: Dawn Kirkland – Sun Life Financial
We are delighted to introduce Dawn Kirkland, who has supported our work through Sun Life Financial. Can you tell us who you are, a little bit about you, and your professional background? I am Dawn Kirkland, HR Business Partner for Sun Life Financial in the UK. I...
Babbasa’s Youth Ambassadors launch their new campaign: City Of Change
The newly recruited Babbasa Youth Ambassadors have launched a new campaign this October, City Of Change: Youth Challenge, in response to Babbasa’s #BridgeToEquality report. This month, the team of nine young leaders are asking 30 businesses to create a career...
Partner of the Week: Lucy McKerron – McCann Synergy
We are delighted to introduce this week's Partner of the Week, Lucy McKerron, who has supported our work through McCann Synergy. Tell us a bit about yourself. Who are you, where are you from and what’s your job title and role? I’m a Bristol girl, born and bred, so...
Trailblazer – Max: My Story
"I’ve lived in Bristol for as long as I can remember. I was born in Hackney, but moved here as a baby. All of my pride is in Bristol. My primary passion is music. I’ve been drumming since year 7. At school they had one small room with a drum kit, an amp and a window....
Babbasa – Our Impact
Written by Poku Osei: 30th September, 2020 It is a privilege to work with some of the most determined and values-driven individuals at Babbasa to support aspiring young people and communities in Bristol over the last few years. I am therefore proud to introduce a...
Trailblazer – Yesmain: My Story
“I'm Yesmain and I would say those close to me would say I’m assertive, passionate, and honest. Spending time in isolation either listening to music, podcasts or language-orientated audio books is therapeutic and the best way to spend any free time I have. Growing...
Partner of the Week: Sandy Hore-Ruthven – Creative Youth Network
We are delighted to publish a new Partner of the Week blog, which shines a spotlight on the great organisations that support our mission at Babbasa. The Partner of the Week blogs talk to the individuals behind organisations, and goes into depth on their values, their...
DEADLINE 12TH APRIL 2021
Fixed Contract role - 15 months Are you interested in learning more about the TV production industry? Would you describe yourself as an organised person who can take initiative? Are you a good communicator, who able to multitask? Are you competent in...
DEADLINE 22nd MARCH 2021
Fixed Contract role - 25 hours per week - KICKSTART SCHEME This opportunity falls under the Kickstart scheme, meaning applicants need to be in receipt of Universal Credit to apply. Are you an excellent communicator, who works well with people? Do you...
STARTING 3RD MAY or ASAP
Full time role Do you feel unique or different? Do you want to work in an organisation that values and respects you irrespective of where you come from, or whatever the colour of your skin, or whatever your gender, religion, education or sexual orientation?...
DEADLINE 15th MARCH 2021
Full time - Director Role Do you have a track record of leadership? Are you a clear strategist that can create tangible results? Do you have experience shaping cross organisational performance and culture, including engaging in organisational governance?...
DEADLINE 8th MARCH 2021
Full time position Are you a positive and optimistic person who enjoys getting stuck in to work? Do you consider yourself friendly, reliable and dependable? Are you a team player that can be relied on for advice or assistance with a hands on/technical problem?...
DEADLINE 8th MARCH 2021
Full or Part time position Are you an organised person with good time management skills? Are you able to work with various groups of people including suppliers, contractors and deadlines. Are you keen to get involved with lots of different projects and enjoy...
Babbasa is Hiring!!! – Communications & Executive Support Lead
Are you passionate about sharing positive stories through online and social media? Are you a value-driven person with a good eye for detail? We're hiring a new Communications & Executive Support Lead to run our communications channels and support our CEO. Start...
Babbasa TV
Want to share your views on the big issues that affect you, your friends, and your family? Want to give other young people a platform to be heard by the community and decision-makers in Bristol? Look no further than Babbasa TV! Babbasa TV is all about giving you the...
Partner of the Week: Chris Turner – Bright Blue Kite
Lockdown has been a very challenging time for young people who are looking to start their dream careers; especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Opportunities to train, network, and find new jobs play a crucial role in preventing inequality gaps from...
Ethnic Minority Professionals Share Their Stories and Advice
#HearOurStories is about looking at the journeys of people from underrepresented backgrounds, their challenge, and their successes. This video looks at the lives of 6 influential professionals from ethnic minority backgrounds and explores how they got to where they...
How to Stay Productive (from Bristol’s Professionals)
Unsure of how to stay productive and focused on your goals? Bristol-based professionals share their tips on how you can keep moving towards achieving your dreams. This video was arranged by Babbasa's Youth Ambassadors and recorded as part of the youth-led Skill Swap...
Bristol Mayor, Marvin Rees Shares his Story and Opportunities for Young People #BeyondCOVID
Marvin Rees shares his inspirational story and discusses the opportunities available for young people, now and beyond COVID-19. Click on the video below to watch the full interview! This interview was held by Babbasa's Youth Ambassadors and recorded as part of the...
Partner of the Week: Chris Thurling – Armadillo/Bristol Media
We are delighted to introduce this new Partner of the Week blog, which shines a spotlight on the great organisations that support our mission at Babbasa. The bi-weekly blog talks to the individuals behind these organisations, and goes into depth on their values, their...
Trailblazer – Beth: How I’m Pursuing My Dream Career During Lockdown
I’m Beth, a 24-year-old, autistic communicator and content creator living in Bristol. I moved here two years ago from South East London and came to Babbasa last summer to develop my confidence and start my career. I wanted to get into marketing and social...
How do we build a more just, equitable, and inclusive society from here? – Poku Osei
by Poku Osei: 9th June, 2020 As a father, person of colour and a leader of an organisation that works with many young people of colour, it has not been a surprise to see the deep outrage across the globe in recent weeks. The impact of seeing someone who looks like you...
Ishola Offered £10,000 Bursary at TechTalent Academy through BeyondCOVID Appeal
Friday, June 5th 2020 Ishola has been offered a £10,000 coding bursary, as part of Babbasa's #BeyondCOVID appeal. Babbasa's urgent appeal is supporting young people from underrepresented backgrounds to continue to pursue their dream careers throughout and beyond...
Our Response to Recent Racist Incidents
Wednesday, June 3rd 2020 The events of this week have been another painful reminder of the stark challenges that people of colour continue to face. The tragic death of George Floyd under the knee of a police officer in Minnesota, USA was cruel, inhumane, and has no...
Trailblazer – Nehanda: My Story
"I was born in Bristol and the I'm the youngest of 3 children, with two brothers. Being the only girl can be annoying at times but I guess I've learnt to deal with it. Most people would describe me as being quite weird and dramatic, but others would say I'm quite...
Trailblazer – Yasmin: My Story
I am Yasmin Mohammed, a 24-year-old currently living in Bristol. I was born and raised here and studied right through to college-level education. I am the youngest of 5 brothers and I am the only girl. It was at a young stage in my life when I knew I wanted to work in...
Beyond COVID – Pursuing an Inclusive Recovery
by Poku Osei, 18/05/20 As we begin to rebuild our lives, it is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic will reshape the nation’s economy, industries, and our society in a fundamental way. The disease has had an impact on all lives - black, white, rich and poor. But it has...
Trailblazer: Osob – My First Media Role
“I don’t like to say it’s a challenge, and I tend to see it as more of a blessing but I come from a big family of 12 siblings and with a condition that has required multiple surgeries. Babbasa arranged work experience for me with the editor of Bristol 24/7....
Trailblazer: Cameron – My Story
“When I was growing up, my home life was full of abuse and I was continually faced with fear, pain, and hostility. I faced a lot of violence and racial abuse at school as well, and before long, I was kicked out, and later arrested for possessing a knife. I had reached...
Youth Ambassador: Yasmin – The Importance of Key Workers
Key workers are a lifeline to our country during coronavirus A key worker is someone in the public sector who provides care to others or performs another vital function to provide support or services to others (such as working in supermarkets or transport). As a...
Youth Ambassador: Rosie – Out of Crisis Comes Creativity
"Things are weird right now, aren’t they? The sun is shining, but no one is out. Everyone is in quarantine, self-isolating, or simply shut up in their houses awaiting news of where we can and can’t go. So, in these unusual times where we can’t enjoy a trip to the pub...
Babbasa’s First-Ever Online Festival, Skill Swap is launched!
Babbasa has launched its first-ever online festival for young people! Skill Swap is an opportunity for young people to share their experiences in lockdown, take part in daily challenges, share their skills and knowledge, and attend great workshops from professionals....
Babbasa Wins Queen’s Award for ‘Transforming’ Young Lives in inner-city Bristol
Babbasa marks its ‘Queen’s Award for Enterprise’ by launching an urgent appeal to support local young people affected by the Coronavirus pandemic Youth Empowerment organisation, Babbasa has won a Queen's Award for Enterprise - the highest official award for a UK...
Youth Ambassador: Rosie – My Experience So Far
"My experience so far as a Youth Ambassador (YA) has been nothing but positive. I found out about the Challenge programme as part of the ‘Our Bristol, Our World’ conference, ran by Babbasa’s previous YA’s in mid-October. The aim of the conference was to give young...
Navigating These Challenging Times
To Our Community, Young people, colleagues, and Bristol as a community are at the heart of what we do. Therefore as a result of the COVID-19 situation and following the recommendations of WHO and UK Government, we are taking a number of actions to continue our work...
Trailblazer: Stephen – The City Leadership Programme
Babbasa Trailblazer, Stephen talks through his experience of being a part of the City Leadership programme. The programme supports highly aspirational young people from less advantaged backgrounds by giving them the tools they need to become leaders of the future....
Trailblazer: Livi – My Placement with Plimsoll Productions
Media, broadcasting and documentaries had always been of some interest to me, but I wasn't completely sure what I could do to turn that interest into a career. Through the Babbasa Placement Programme, I was able to secure a work experience opportunity at Plimsoll...
Trailblazer: Amy – The City Leadership Programme
Babbasa Trailblazer, Amy talks through her experience of being a part of the City Leadership programme. The programme supports highly aspirational young people from less advantaged backgrounds by giving them the tools they need to become leaders of the future. It's an...
Trailblazer: Sumayo – My First Steps in Enterprise
“I joined the Babbasa Level 2 Enterprise course as a secondary school leaver, with a clear idea that I wanted to pursue my own business either in fashion or with food, but lacked the skills needed to do it. Babbasa was there to support me as a learner. During the...
COVID-19: How we’re staying safe while supporting the community
UPDATE: FOLLOWING THE GOVERNMENTS LATEST MEASURES TO TACKLE COVID-19, WE HAVE INTRODUCED ADDITIONAL MEASURES TO ENSURE THE HEALTH AND SAFETY OF OUR COMMUNITY. PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION After listening to the government's latest advice on COVID-19...
Trailblazer: Aabbi – The Value of a Mentor
"I went to a school where I felt a lack of encouragement for ethnic minorities to study academically and creatively challenging subjects. Despite feeling discouraged, with the support of Babbasa I got a professional mentor who supported me to complete my A-levels and...
Trailblazer: Haji – My Story
Haji has been on an incredible journey so far. After migrating to Bristol from Nigeria, he spent his childhood living in a single-parent, low-income household with his siblings, aspiring to become a successful professional. Haji came to one of Babbasa's first-ever Ask...
Trailblazer: Daniella – My Story
' I was born in London, and I spent most of my early life moving in and out of Britain from England to Barbados. I was in the middle of a custody battle between my parents, and all the moves meant that I didn’t have a normal, average upbringing. Without going...
Trailblazer: Zainab – My Story
I My name’s Zainab, I am currently a Babbasa Trailblazer and have been with Babbasa for a number of years. I was originally born in London born into a first-generation Pakistani family but have lived in Bristol for the majority of my life and would say I love...
Trailblazer: Hersi – My Story
I moved from London to Bristol in 2004 and I’ve lived here ever since. I know Bristol like the back of my hand. My family are originally from Somaliland, and Bristol has a thriving Somali community which is a lot closer than that of London because of how big London...
The Business Case for Workplace Diversity: 7 Key Benefits
7 Key Benefits of Workplace Diversity By Krish Pattni - 30/01/2020 Workplace diversity is often discussed as an intrinsic good; a position most would agree with. There is, however, a compelling case to make that it is in the interest of businesses to build inclusive...
Trailblazer: Qazzally – My Story
I’m from Bristol, but I was born in London but grew up in Bristol. Both my parents came to England as refugees of the Somali civil war. I am 1 of 6 children in the family I keep it simple with my hobbies. I love watching sports like basketball and playing them as...
Trailblazer: Okori – My Story
I was born in Bristol and most of my family is from here too. My grandparents came here during Windrush. As far as I know, my family lived in St Pauls up until I was born, Then we moved to fishponds. We were the only black family in the area. Fishponds was cool, to be...
Okori Lewis-McCalla Wins 2020 Ben Martin Apprentice Award
Multi-talented creative and tech designer, Okori Lewis-McCalla is the winner of the 2020 Ben Martin Apprentice Award. Babbasa, in partnership with Bristol Media and ADLIB Recruitment, presents the award with the aim of improving equal access to opportunity in the...
Our Bristol. Our World. Our Manifesto.
In the work that we do with young people, we want to make sure that our organisation leaves a lasting legacy on Bristol. Young people are too often experiencing unequal treatment because of their backgrounds. The voices of those young people need to be heard and...
Trailblazer: Olumide – My Story
Hi, I’m Olumide. I grew up in Berkshire, but I also lived in Nigeria for 3 years from 13 to 16. I came back to England for 6th form and finally came to Bristol to go to university. My friends would describe me as being joyful, creative, and sociable. I’m going into my...
Trailblazer: Tyreke – My Story
Hi, I’m Tyreke. I’m originally from Bristol. My family and friends would say I’m funny, wise when it comes to serious topics, confident, and dependable. I’ve finished college, and I’m currently taking a gap year. I’m using this time to experiment by doing different...
This is What Bristol’s Young People Have to Say About Climate Change
It is vital that young peoples' voices are heard in the climate change discussion, but all too often, they get ignored. For this reason, we launched our 'Have Your Say' event - the perfect platform for Bristol's young people to share their thoughts and their ideas....
Why ‘Our Bristol, Our World’ is Important to Me – Ebun
Young people at Babbasa are working with the Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees and the City Office to produce a brand new youth conference, called 'Our Bristol, Our World.' The conference is centred on giving young people a platform to influence Bristol's One City Plan. –...
Why ‘Our Bristol, Our World’ is Important to Me – Bethany
Young people at Babbasa are working with the Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees and the City Office to produce a brand new youth conference, called ‘Our Bristol, Our World.’ The conference is centred on giving young people a platform to influence Bristol’s One City Plan. –...
Trailblazer: Jeril – My Story
Hi, I’m Jeril, and I’m a social media and marketing manager from Bristol. At the moment, I’m studying Business Management at UWE. I was born in South India, and spent a couple of my early years in Oman. I came to the UK when I was 4, and lived here for about 9 years....
Why ‘Our Bristol, Our World’ is Important to Me – Rema
Young people at Babbasa are working with the Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees and the City Office to produce a brand new youth conference, called 'Our Bristol, Our World.' The conference is centred on giving young people a platform to influence Bristol's One City...
‘Our Bristol, Our World’ Youth Conference Announced
We are delighted to announce that we are working with the Mayor of Bristol, Marvin Rees and the City Office to deliver an innovative youth conference. 'Our Bristol, Our World' will give young people from all backgrounds the chance to tell city leaders about the issues...
Trailblazer: Beatriz – My Story
I moved to Bristol from Brazil when I was 6 years old with my parents and older sister. Since then we have had 2 additions to our family, my little brother and our pet hamster. I would describe myself as impulsive, warm and understanding, although my friends and...
Trailblazer: Hari – My Story
Hari Ramakrishnan (also known as Pariah Khan) is currently touring his one-man-show, An Indian Abroad, which he stars in, writes and produces. Having lived in multiple countries, the show plays on Hari’s experiences of moving to Britain as an Indian, and India as a...
Trailblazer: Farnaz – My Story
Farnaz became a Babbasa Youth Ambassador in 2019 and had big ambitions to transition from admin work to a career in TV. Three months later, she found herself working for an award-winning production company, Icon Films - something which she said has changed her life....
#HearOurStories – Bakoto’s Placement with Kinneir Dufort
Having joined Babbasa earlier this year, sixteen-year-old Bakoto Jobe was offered the chance to do a week-long work placement with world-class innovation and product development consultancy, Kinneir Dufort. Sorrell Walsh from Kinneir Dufort recently caught up with...
Trailblazer: Mo – My Story
I migrated to Bristol at the age of 5 to escape civil war and the harsh environment of a broken country. Irrespective of this, I focus on that which I’m in control of and give no time to the things that limit me. I have always been driven towards business and consider...
Trailblazer: Jasmine – My Story
Hi, I’m Jasmine Thompson. I’m a creative, so creating art ALL the time. I’m quite chilled out, and very focused on what I want to do. I'm now twenty-four and based in Bristol as an illustrator and designer. Growing up, I lived in a really small city that didn’t have a...
Trailblazer: Ismail – My Story
I grew up always moving. I was born in Italy, then later moved to England at the age of 11. Because of my diverse upbringing, I am able to speak multiple languages. I speak English, Arabic and Italian. My life in Italy if compared to my life in England is...
Trailblazer: Whiz – My Story
Both my parents are from Nigeria. My village in Nigeria gave me my name, Fumen. That means 'wisdom', which is where Whiz comes from. I went there for the first time at age 6 and learned the language that I use now called Hausa. Being born in London and going to...
Trailblazer: Haneen – My Story
Hi, I’m Haneen, I’m 16. I have 3 siblings. My friends would describe me as funny, a good listener and that I give great advice! My parents would say that I’m loud, a bit naughty, but nice as well. I like playing sports, especially football. And I really like baking. I...
Trailblazer: Marissa – My Story
Hi, I’m Marissa and I’m a Graphic Designer from Bristol. I think that my friends and family would describe me as outgoing, motivated, and creative. I’ve spent the last 3 years in Birmingham studying Graphic Communication at Birmingham City University. I loved being a...
Trailblazer: Kelly – My Story
Hi, I’m Kelly, originally from London. My friends and family see me as funny and caring, although a little bit argumentative. I came to Bristol to study Law, but I’m looking for a career in TV - behind the camera, definitely behind, ideally a scriptwriter or producer....
Babbasa Recruiting Youth Ambassadors for 2019/2020
Babbasa is looking for young people to become its Youth Ambassadors for 2019/2020! The Youth Ambassadors are a team of ambitious, hard-working and resilient young people (aged 16-25) working together — with training from Babbasa — to help gain invaluable work...
‘Fantastic’ Youth Empowerment Organisation Awarded National Lottery Funding
Bristol-based youth empowerment organisation, Babbasa has been awarded funding by the National Lottery to continue the 'vital work' that they do in inner-city Bristol. The funding has been allocated for one of their three core support programmes - the Challenge...
Babbasa Recruiting! Deadline 10th July 2019.
What is Babbasa?Babbasa is an award-winning social enterprise that believes that every young person, irrespective of background, has a talent that when given the opportunity to explore and nurture, adds value to society. We, therefore, provide services including soft...
Babbasa Meets the Mayor of the West of England
Babbasa visited the Mayor of the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), Tim Bowles. The lunch and discussion on Monday, June 17 was an opportunity for our young people to understand the Mayor's role in the region and his career journey, for those that were...
Realising the ‘Babbasa Hub’ in inner-city Bristol
We’re moving! After some wonderful years at Redbrick House, and having supported hundreds of young people, we are moving to a brand new community hub.We are delighted to announce that we have been successful in securing a lease in St Paul’s (Bristol) and initial seed...
Babbasa & Bristol24/7 present ‘Ask About Me’ 2019: 24th April 5.30pm
Babbasa's flagship event - Ask About Me - returns once again, this time in collaboration with Bristol24/7! After the success of previous years, this intergenerational networking event will act as a platform for up to 100 young people from inner city Bristol to...
Babbasa Recruiting! Deadline 4th and 10th March 2019.
WHAT IS BABBASA?Babbasa is an award-winning social enterprise that believes that every young person, irrespective of background, has a talent that when given the opportunity to explore and nurture, adds value to society. We, therefore, provide services including soft...
Trailblazer: Myles – My Story
"My name is Myles, and I’m 26 years old now. In school I wasn’t interested in any of the subjects so left with no GCSEs which made it difficult to find a job. I didn’t know what I wanted to do after I left school, but one day I just bought a camera and started...
Trailblazer: Faduma – My Story
"I came here when I was six, from Somalia. I’m the oldest of eight siblings. I’m seen as honest, motivated and bold, although my little siblings think I’m bossy! When I moved here I didn’t know the language. I learnt everything from watching TV, it’s why I love it, it...
Staff: Poku Osei – Babbasa CEO
Poku Pipim Osei (BA, PGCert, MSc) is a respected social entrepreneur and the Founder and CEO of award-winning youth empowerment organisation, Babbasa. Poku relocated to Bristol from Ghana in 2008. Until that point, his professional experiences had been in the private...
Staff: Jenny Kerridge – Operations Manager
I’m Jenny, the Operations Manager and a Director at Babbasa. I’ve been here almost from the beginning, and have watched Babbasa grow from strength to strength. My key role relates to assurance. I make sure we’re meeting our targets, managing risks and delivering our...
Staff: Urfan Ali – Advisor and Senior Business and Partnerships Associate
I’m Urfan and I have been aware of Babbasa since 2011 (when it was known as BYEP) and shortly after signed up to be a mentor. The work they did really resonated with me because of my own life experience. My parents were first-generation immigrants and weren’t in a...
Staff: Kate La Tour – Fundraising and Partnerships Lead
I lead on fundraising and building partnerships with employers and organisations to offer opportunities; and in turn support them to understand the needs of diverse young people entering the world of work. I joined Babbasa in March, just at the beginning of lockdown....
Staff: Lizzie Potter – Projects Coordinator
As the Projects Coordinator for Babbasa, I organise our mentoring programme, and support Jenny with our internal operations. It’s a really varied role, and changes on a daily basis depending on what needs to be done. I started volunteering at Babbasa because I wanted...
Staff: Maria Sidawi – Operations and Project Support
I’m Maria, I joined Babbasa in September as Interim Communications Lead where I was responsible for the communications for the City Of Change campaign. I am now Operations and Project Support, where I am responsible for supporting the delivery of Babbasa’s operations...
Staff: Kofo Ajala – Communications and Executive Support Lead
My name is Kofo Ajala and I am the Communication and Executive Support Lead. To put it simply, I’m here to keep you informed of all Babbasa has to offer. Whether it’s through Facebook or Instagram or through videos and blogs, my day to day life centres around bringing...
Staff: Pravanya Pillay – Outreach and Engagement Lead
I’m the outreach and engagement lead at Babbasa – in my role I go out and about all over Bristol meeting young people and getting them involved with all the excellent programmes at Babbasa. It’s a great role because it means I get to work directly with inspiring and...
Staff: Zoe Lynes – Challenge Programme Lead
My role as Challenge Programme Lead is to be responsible for the Challenge Programme and also the delivery of our LifeShops, which are our professional development workshops. For the Challenge Programme, the Youth Ambassadors need to deliver a social action project,...
Staff: Sarah Dean – Research and Evaluation Intern
I’m Sarah, I’ve recently joined Babbasa as a Research and Evaluation intern. I make sure each program is evaluating its success and progress effectively and I also do some internal research to report on all the amazing work the team at Babbasa are doing. I recently...
Babbasa Board: Carmen Tilbury – Youth Representative
I’m a Business Analyst for Coutts and Co. and work in change management to ensure we implement new processes and systems that support our diverse colleagues and clients. I launched the Multicultural Network in 2018 for our organisation in Bristol and as the chair,...
Bridging The Gap Training: 28th Feb, 21st March and 16th April
The innovative Bridging The Gap Programme builds on the business case for Diversity and Inclusion (Diversity Matters, McKinsey 2016; Inclusive Leadership, Deloitte Consulting 2016). It is designed for senior leaders, managers and supervisors, under four independent...
Donate
Want to support?
Fund a young person on our programmes, or support one of our youth activities.
Join Our Newsletter
Sign up to hear about our upcoming job opportunities, events and programmes.