Together we are stronger
3 mins read
Wednesday 15 October 2025
Omo Idegun, a parent carer who has worked with our Wales team, shares her experience of setting up Wrexham Africa Community CIC to help turn loneliness into belonging.
“I’m a single parent living in Wrexham, raising two incredible children: my daughter, a dedicated young carer and my son who is autistic. Our journey has been shaped by love, advocacy, and the belief that community makes us stronger.
“My connection with Contact began at a pilot consultation in Wrexham, funded by Awards for All. I spoke passionately about the importance of parent support groups, how they must uplift every member, not just a chosen few. That moment sparked deeper involvement: I joined the Wales Parents Steering Group.
“In 2022, I travelled to Cardiff with my children to attend Contact’s Celebration Day and carers’ consultation ahead of their successful three-year National Lottery bid. It was a huge experience, especially for my son, but we made it. I stayed calm and planned carefully, knowing how much that helps him feel safe. I even recorded a short video reflecting on the event, which Contact used in their bid submission. Later that day, we joined others at the theatre to watch Sister Act. It was brilliant, joyful, uplifting, and unforgettable.
“In 2020, I founded Wrexham Africa Community CIC, a group dedicated to celebrating African culture, building connections, and supporting one another through events, networking, and heritage. I saw a gap in support and celebration for Africans living in Wrexham and surrounding areas. These projects began with a simple but powerful idea:
Every voice should be heard. Every culture should be celebrated.
“Through Wrexham Africa Community, we’ve helped turn loneliness into belonging. We’ve created a space where African voices are not just heard, they’re honoured. We’ve supported newcomers, empowered young people, and built bridges across communities.
“In 2024, with support from Wrexham2029, City of Culture funding, Africa Oyé, and Wrexfest, we launched our pilot music festival: AfroFiesta, a vibrant celebration of African and Caribbean culture. Afro Fiesta is more than a festival. It’s a stage for learning, connection, and joy. We’ve brought together hundreds, even thousands of people to experience music, dance, food, and stories from across the diaspora. What started as a small idea has grown into a movement that’s helping Wrexham become more diverse, lively, and united.
“This year, we proudly hosted the second edition of Afro Fiesta. And we’re just getting started!”
