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By Johnson Adebowale
A groundbreaking initiative, spearheaded by Afrikindness, in partnership with Winners’ Chapel International Leeds, is empowering faith-based communities to become stronger advocates for child protection. The launch of a tailored safeguarding training pack marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of children within African and faith-based communities.
Recognising the unique challenges faced by these communities, the training pack is designed to address critical issues such as child molestation, domestic abuse, forced marriages and exploitation. Developed in collaboration with safeguarding experts from Voluntary Action Leeds, the pack is tailored to the cultural and spiritual context of African congregations.
The launch event, held at Winners’ Chapel International Leeds, brought together over 110 parents, children, and faith leaders. The workshop, sponsored by the National Lottery Community Fund, provided a platform to discuss safeguarding principles, share experiences, mm and learn from experts.
Deaconess Olufunmilola Olaniyi-Alabi, a key figure in developing the training pack, highlighted the importance of cultural sensitivity in addressing safeguarding issues. She emphasized the need for proactive measures and awareness to protect vulnerable children.
Pastor Adeyinka Olaniyan, the resident pastor of Winners’ Chapel International Leeds, reiterated the church’s commitment to child safety. The church has established designated safeguarding leads to implement robust measures and ensure the well-being of children within the congregation and beyond.
The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, commended Afrikindness and Winners’ Chapel for their initiative and urged other faith communities to adopt similar practices. She emphasized the crucial role of faith leaders in safeguarding children and creating safer environments.
Bunmi Owolabi, CEO of Afrikindness, highlighted the importance of upholding moral standards within faith communities. She stressed the need for churches to be safe and holy places that positively influence individuals and communities.
By providing essential training and resources, Afrikindness and Winners’ Chapel are empowering faith communities to create safer environments for children. This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration and the commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society.
