“Welcome!” That’s what it means, “Akwaaba”, in the Twi language of Ghana. Right here in Hackney, this community centre, a haven for migrants, embodies the spirit of welcoming. Originally launched in 2014, in the heart of Hackney, the Akwaaba Centre is a vibrant place where asylum seekers, refugees, and migrants of all backgrounds can find support and build a sense of belonging. Its founders, members of Green Lanes Methodist Church and the Hackney Migrant Centre, saw a real need to create a safe and inclusive space where these individuals could connect, share their experiences, and heal from the challenges they have faced. Akwaaba is, in effect, a lifeline for many, a place where they can access essential resources, participate in activities, and feel a sense of community. It has become a beacon of hope and solidarity for those who have left their homes in search of a better future, a place where they can feel welcomed, supported, and empowered.
Southfields Methodist Church
Curiosity stirred within the heart of Southfields as a new chapter began. Southfields Methodist Church held its first public service