Tell us about your organisation, when you started and why it was set up?
I founded my Community Interest Company in 2023 after experiencing a gap in maternal care that deeply affected me. Coming out of the isolation of the COVID-19 lockdowns, I found myself navigating motherhood without a strong circle of other moms around me. I felt alone, and my own journey through postnatal depression and anxiety made me realise how vital connection and community are.
I started The Mamahood Space so that no other mother would have to feel as unsupported as I once did – a space for moms to come together, talk, create, and heal.
What has been your biggest achievement since starting?
My biggest achievement since starting The Mamahood Space has been being nominated and becoming a finalist for the Black Motherhood Group Awards in the Grassroots Organisation category. It meant so much to have the work recognised in this way — especially as it grew from such a personal place of pain, healing, and purpose.
To be acknowledged among other incredible grassroots changemakers was a reminder that even small beginnings, rooted in care and community, can make a big impact. It encouraged me to keep going and affirmed that this work matters.
What is your experience of support received from WVCA?
So far, my experience with WVCA has been encouraging. Just being connected to a network that recognises and supports grassroots organisations like mine is reassuring. While I’m still in the early stages of engaging with WVCA, I’ve appreciated the initial guidance and opportunities to learn more about what support might be available.
I would love to build a stronger relationship going forward — especially around funding advice, partnership opportunities, and developing our structure as we grow.
What key lessons have you learned in these early stages?
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that community work takes time, care, and consistency. Building trust — especially with mothers who may feel vulnerable or isolated — doesn’t happen overnight. It’s about showing up, being present, and creating a space that feels safe and welcoming.
I’ve also learned the importance of asking for help and not trying to do everything alone. Running a grassroots organisation with limited resources means you have to be creative, but also realistic about your own capacity. Collaborations, peer support, and small wins really do matter.
Another key lesson has been around being flexible — listening to what moms actually need, not just what I planned to offer. It’s taught me to stay rooted in purpose, but open to change
What challenges are you currently facing as a newly established group, and how can WVCA or other organisations provide further support?
As a newly established organisation, one of the biggest challenges I’m facing is financial sustainability. Most of our sessions have been self-funded or supported through small contributions, which limits how much we can offer — especially to mothers who are in need but may not be able to pay.
I’m also navigating the balance between delivering meaningful, consistent support and doing so without a paid team or long-term funding. Outreach and visibility can also be a challenge, particularly in reaching new moms in the community who may be isolated or unaware of our services.
Support from WVCA or other organisations in the form of funding opportunities, capacity building, networking, and mentorship would be incredibly valuable. Access to small grants, guidance on income generation, and help connecting with local health services or children’s centres would help us grow and become more sustainable. I’d also welcome training or development sessions around funding, safeguarding, and monitoring outcomes — to strengthen our foundation as we grow.
Where can we find out more about your group / organisation?
Website: www.themamahoodspace.com
Instagram: @themamahoodspace