Jabulani was created as a vibrant space that fosters community, celebrates cultural diversity, and empowers Black and Asian women in the South West. It provides a platform where people can connect through sharing food and culture, while also supporting women in these communities to thrive and succeed.
Jabulani has received two small grants from Devon Community Foundation. One of these came through funding from the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) and the other through our Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) fund, funded by Plymouth City Council and the Sedel-Collings Foundation.
The PCC grant was awarded to support Jabulani to deliver a series of events in response to the violence that erupted in Plymouth (and across the UK) last August following the killing of three girls in Southport, Merseyside, in July 2024.
The events planned include food and dialogue nights, anti-racism training, history and heritage sessions, and safe spaces for peer support for Black and minority ethnic communities. These make use of Jabulani’s unique space, rooted in cultural exchange and community empowerment, to bring people together, address racism, and promote inclusivity.
The VAWG funding is being used to run monthly “Girls 2 Women” events. These bring together girls and women of colour, providing a space to make connections and support one another. Most recently, Jabulani hosted a food demonstration for young women preparing for university and their mothers.
The next event, in May 2025, is entitled “Strong Together: Safety, Rights and Support”. A woman police officer will be joining to talk about Clare’s Law, a scheme that enables the police to release information about an individual’s previous history of violence or abuse. And a representative from The Olive Project will attend to talk about the support they provide to Black and minoritised women who have experienced domestic abuse.
There will also be free food and drinks. “As with everything at Jabulani CIC, we’ll be bringing plenty of fun, good vibes, and laughter along the way!” says Liliane Uwimana, who runs Jabulani.
The event is on Thursday 15th May 2025, from 6-8pm at The Plot, Union Street, Plymouth. It’s open to women and girls aged 16 plus, and Jabulani hopes especially to reach those from Black and minority ethnic communities, who they know are statistically less likely to access support around their safety.
