Embark on a Journey of Wellness and Connection with Jamii 2 Project

By Carol Adams -  Jamii 2 Researcher

Join us for an exhilarating adventure of self-discovery and community empowerment with the Jamii 2 Project! Dedicated to enriching the health and wellbeing of Black communities across Wales, our vibrant initiative offers a diverse range of activities. From energizing workouts to enriching cultural exchanges, we're here to help you thrive, connect, and celebrate your cultural identity. Organized by the Sub-Saharan Advisory Panel (SSAP), North Wales African Society (NWAS),  Soel Connect, and Jukebox Collective,  the Jamii 2 Project invites you to embark on a journey of holistic wellness and connection.

1. Discover Belonging:  Find your community and foster genuine connections through our array of activities. For many of our participants, the allure of our activities lies in the sense of belonging they provide. "I don't know how to make friends here... I am joining Zumba to make connections. You never know, a friendship might come out of that," shares a Cardiff Asylum Seeker. From Zumba to Games Night, our targeted activities offer a safe space where individuals can connect with others who share their experiences and cultural background, fostering friendships that transcend borders and boundaries. For a participant in the Soel Connect Choir, the choir became a family. "There's a sense of care... I feel very much like I've got a place where I belong and a place where someone cares," she explains. Through shared experiences and genuine connections, she found a supportive network that uplifted her spirit and provided a sense of belonging.
2. Experience Healing and Renewal: Life can be challenging, but with the support of our community, participants find solace and rejuvenation. Whether it's through the joy of dance in Zumba or the camaraderie of Games Night, our activities serve as a sanctuary for those navigating the complexities of life. "It helps to take my mind off things... It rejuvenates my mind," expresses a grateful participant from our Games Night. Through laughter, music, and shared experiences, we're helping individuals find balance, resilience, and inner peace. Amidst life's demands, Soel Connect provided our participant with a sanctuary for her mental health. "This is a place where I feel like it does a great deal for my mental health... It restores a sense of balance," she shares.
3. Prioritize Your Physical Health: In addition to the social and mental health benefits, our activities also prioritize physical wellbeing. From the exhilarating workouts of Zumba to nature walks, participants are embracing the joy of movement and vitality. "Getting a GP appointment takes a long time... I look for things to help me keep healthy," shares one participant. With our free and accessible activities, everyone has the opportunity to prioritize their physical health and wellbeing
4. Empower Women Our women-only Zumba classes provide a space for empowerment, connection, and self-expression. "I joined Zumba to connect with other women... The more connections, the better," expresses a participant. Whether it's finding support, building confidence, or simply enjoying the freedom to dance without inhibition, our women's activities empower participants to embrace their strength and shine.
5. Embrace Diversity and Inclusion One aspect participants appreciate about  the Soel Connect choir is its multicultural environment. "It's great to be able to learn about other cultures and I love that we've got involved with projects that allowed us to work with a Welsh choir."
6. Free and Accessible: We believe that everyone deserves access to wellbeing activities, regardless of financial constraints. That's why all our activities are free, providing a lifeline for individuals and families seeking affordable ways to connect and thrive. From Games Night for the kids to Zumba for the whole family, our programs offer a welcoming space for all.
7. Join the Movement Ready to embark on your journey of wellness and connection? Contact NWAS nwafricasociety@gmail.com for information on activities in North Wales, or email us at sarra.ibrahim@ssap.org.uk to learn about events in South Wales. Follow us on Instagram and X @nwafricasociety  @ssapwales to stay updated on upcoming activities and join our vibrant community.