Reflection By Moneeba Shebra

Odara is a women’s organisation which offers females the opportunity to grow personally, professionally and socially. The aim of our involvement in the project was to spread awareness of the services offered by ODARA, making them the leading women’s hub in Birmingham. Our initial aim was to increase their social media activity therefore we suggested a promotional video which would detail Ayesha’s story. Ayesha was adamant on fundraising for ODARA as many of the services offered are free of charge as they’re aimed at vulnerable women. As a group, we came up with the idea of a social event, where we would sell tickets for entry. We came up with the idea of a Pizza Party and Pamper event as we believed this was the most effective way to promote and fundraise for the vulnerable women involved. We created a generic email which would be sent to schools, community centres, organisations and GPs, where Ayesha would provide a workshop for them to promote the campaign in return. The flyer for the event was created by myself and approved by the others, once this was done all we needed to do now was sell the tickets. Ayesha’s aim was to sell 50 tickets. As a whole, the experience was very challenging throughout but we left the project on a positive note.

During the process of organising the Pizza, Pamper, Party event I felt that not everyone in the group was providing their full potential which was a set-back as I thought it was a really good idea to go through with. At times communication with group members did become challenging as everyone had different priorities. There was a great deal of frustration on my side which was natural as I had put in 100% effort into the ideas behind the event, so when this was not replicated by others I felt isolated with my ideas. However, looking back at how I reacted it is important to acknowledge that there are several things going on at Odara which are mostly run by Ayesha alone. Therefore, during this process I have further developed my skills in particular patience and listening. This was important because as a team we came to the realisation that we should end the project on a positive note, for such an encouraging organisation. Therefore, as we all took a step back and listened to each other, we decided to create an event toolkit which would benefit Ayesha and her very hectic schedule as she has a lot going on, so we decided to create something which would allow her and her organisation to be more prepared for future events. The group also created an action plan which was specific to the next event Ayesha is hoping to organise which is to celebrate international women’s day. As a group, I feel we made a positive effect on Odara during our time on the project, we provided ideas, alternatives and action plans that will benefit Odara not only now but mainly in the long run of keeping the organisation going. Duration of this project Ayesha has been great to work with, she has taken on our ideas and suggestions constructively. She made clear from the start what she expected from us as well as providing us with a friendly environment. The dedication and passion I have seen from Ayesha in regard to improving her organisation is very admirable.

Finally, I would like to end with acknowledging the efforts of Alison Sharp and all the other members involved in organising the ‘Up Our Street’ Sparkhill project. This has been an incredible opportunity which has provide me with essential experience in relation to community work that benefits individual lives. I have a sheer passion in progressing onto a career where I am able to help vulnerable individuals within our society. The Sparkhill project has allowed me to make future contacts in order to obtain this as I have decided to join Ayesha and her team with helping with the domestic referrals. This project is something I would encourage others to partake in as the opportunities that result from this are endless. I would also like to that Rameesha who was our mentor for her continuous motivation duration of the project. Not forgetting the efforts of other team members Jessica, Taibah and Maryam.