Growing up in Hackney—rich in culture and a multitude of unique lived experiences—I learned to appreciate the beauty of my community.
However, it wasn’t until I moved to university outside of London that I truly recognised this value. While Hackney nurtures resilience and serves as the heartbeat of community connections, I think many young people in our community would agree that we often have limited opportunities for growth.
This isn’t just about the lack of opportunity; there’s a wealth of talent within our communities. Despite achieving excellent grades and accomplishments, imagining a future where we are truly recognised and valued often feels like a distant dream.
We constantly feel the pressure to keep our hopes realistic, leading us to believe our ambitions should be smaller than they could be. The idea of ‘blue-sky thinking’ seems unattainable. While we may have the tools to enter spaces where we are underrepresented, the challenge lies in figuring out how to get there. Once we leave compulsory education, we are often left to navigate our own paths, and the fight becomes even harder, especially when the perception of Hackney is skewed against us.
That’s why BADU marked a significant turning point for many of us around here, and truly changed the game. The organisation’s presence in schools and the wider community began with the innovative use of sport as a powerhouse for engagement. Yet, it encompasses so much more than just physical activity; BADU embodies the essence of sport, elevating it beyond mere movement.
“BADU began as a proactive response to the systemic inequalities, especially racial disparities, that disproportionately affect black and global majority children, who are often underserved with the support and opportunities necessary for their development,” say’s founder and CEO, Nana Badu. He moved to the UK from Ghana aged 10, and faced these hurdles head on throughout his childhood, leading to a deep understanding of the challenges – and the potential solutions.
“Our primary goal was to shape and develop an ecosystem grounded in deep learning and understanding, aimed at creating sustainable, long-term impact for the most underserved communities,” he tells me. “As an organisation, we prioritise leaning into young people’s insights while holding ourselves accountable for fostering change in our communities. BADU does not see itself as a saviour organisation; rather, we are committed to taking action. We want to roll up our sleeves, identify solutions, and get the work done, acknowledging that we did not create these problems. However, we understand it is our responsibility to address them.”
As a movement, BADU goes beyond traditional support by fostering a nurturing environment where we can be seen and supported in a holistic and dynamic way.
They create spaces for us to explore our potential without the usual constraints. Their initiatives are not just about providing resources; they focus on building confidence, cultivating meaningful relationships, and empowering us to view ourselves as invaluable agents of impact and innovation.
When I joined their mentorship programme in 2018, it marked my first step into this incredible organisation. I’ve learned that the space we inhabit is what we make of it. Their team is dedicated to ensuring our community shapes the impact of their initiatives. They don’t just serve us; they engage with us to understand our perspectives and refine their processes to amplify our voices.
Every interaction counts, and the small gestures—a handshake, a warm smile—cultivate trust and comfort. In a community like ours, BADU’s focus on belonging remains at the forefront. They’ve created a model for meaningful community impact through educational support, sport, mentorship, and community placemaking initiatives that celebrate and empower this area’s rich heritage.
Getting ready to run your own race is the cornerstone of BADU’s community and placemaking mission. Their commitment goes beyond mere service delivery, emphasising intentionality in every aspect of the work. This approach is crucial for creating a deep and lasting impact. By fostering both structural and psychological shifts, BADU empowers the most underserved communities to embrace their potential and confidently pursue their own paths.
“Our intentional approach allows us to create bespoke initiatives that make the community feel directly catered to, especially during a time when they have often felt broken, like a second thought,” says Business Operations Manager Nadim Samhan. “This approach provides a space for community members to feel a sense of belonging, which, in turn, empowers them through our initiatives and the connections we foster.”
That’s why the recent ‘Back to School’ campaign was so impactful. This collaborative effort, in partnership with Here East, may seem like a straightforward initiative to provide uniforms and school supplies, but it meant so much more. This campaign instils pride and confidence in young people as they prepare for a new school year.
It demonstrates that our community believes in our success and wants to see us thrive. It’s not only about the material support; it’s about helping students walk into school with a renewed sense of excellence, connection, and self-worth. For many students, returning to school with that backing can redefine how they view their place in education, reinforcing their ties to their peers and reminding them that their community is genuinely invested in their future.
One parent shared feedback: “When I saw my daughter all dressed up and walking through the gates, I felt so proud and excited, just emotionally overwhelmed. I sent everyone in the family group a picture, beaming with pride.”
BADU’s impact is deeply rooted in a thorough understanding of this part of London’s diverse communities. The approach is far from one-size-fits-all; they actively listen to the unique needs of individuals and respond in ways that truly resonate. For instance, the upcoming seasonal ‘That Moment When’ campaign acts as an essential lifeline for underserved community members.
This initiative brings families together and creates moments of hope during difficult times through culturally representative food hampers, utility cost vouchers, and gifts that brighten the festive season. It offers a space for families to pause, appreciate each other, and share moments of togetherness and joy. These actions serve as powerful reminders that we are not alone in our struggles; instead, we are part of something greater—an intergenerational network of support, resilience, and community spirit, that BADU nurtures.
As Hackney Wick undergoes significant regeneration, preserving our cultural richness feels essential. BADU’s work is a testament to the power of deep-rooted connections, paving the way for young people like me to envision a future where we can thrive—not in spite of, but because of, our local roots.
Growing up around here, BADU has taught me to take pride in my community while also reaching for new opportunities. They have become an integral part of the neighbourhood’s spirit, helping us redefine what’s possible and inspiring us to dream bigger. Knowing that our community supports us every step of the way creates an invaluable sense of belonging.
“We have to bridge the dream deficit gap,” says Nana. “Our children do not have the privilege of dreaming beyond survival. Therefore BADU works with young people, communities, stakeholders, and partners who align with us to drive deep impact. We’re creating ecosystems that support the economics and empowerment that enable thriving mindsets.”
As I look to the future, I can’t overstate the importance of initiatives like BADU. They provide a blueprint for community-led initiatives that create a ripple effect of change, fostering resilience, empowerment, and a strong sense of identity among young people. BADU isn’t just an organisation for me; it’s a movement that encourages us to thrive and envision a future filled with possibilities that once seemed out of reach.
The impact goes beyond statistics or programmes; it’s about the lives touched and the futures that have been shaped. This remind us that we are not defined by the limitations of our environment but by the strength of our community and our shared vision for a brighter tomorrow.
With BADU by our side, we are empowered to dream bigger, reach higher, and ultimately transform our aspirations into reality. For all of us growing up around here, this is a powerful lesson, worth carrying forward.
Find out more about BADU at: thebaduway.com
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