Black History Month 2023 : "Salute our Sisters"

As we commemorate Black History Month, we highlight the crucial role Black women have played in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities.

Our spotlight is on Bola Eleyinmi, who is the founder and visionary behind Light Up Black and African Heritage Calderdale charity.

Bola and her family moved to Halifax from Luton in 2017. For two years, Bola and her family navigated life within their own bubble. Families of black and African backgrounds were clustered. It was then that Bola heard a leading from God to start and build a community. One that represented the people of the African and black background. Different races were represented in Halifax, but there was none representing the black population. This birthed the idea of Light Up Black and African Heritage Calderdale. The organisation was established on 29th Nov 2019.

Bola became a role model, and her boldness in starting the charity was inspirational to many African hearts. The charity began with 8 Trustees ,though many have moved on due to differing reasons. It is worthy to note that many were encouraged to grow their own wings and birth those visions that long burnt in them by seeing Bola’s courage.

On 26 June 2022, the charity was registered. It currently functions under 5 Trustees and 5 volunteers. The charity began with 8 members, 6 were part of a family, but has grown to support more than 100 families and single people.

Light Up Black support families by giving them vouchers for food for poverty alleviation. It has helped families with free data and internet. It is also a big believer of quality mental health for people. There are regular sessions for exercise and well being.

Light Up Black and African Heritage Calderdale charity has now opened another branch in Leeds.

There is an African proverbs that says “it takes a village to raise a child”. Since the charities inception; the organisation has worked with many other organisations who are keen on supporting the charity and the values it stands for. Light up bahc is an affiliate of Valley of sanctuary. Bola has also Co-Founded another charity called Stand up to Racism. There have been many events between the charity and other organisations such as St Augustine and Halifax opportunities Trust.

Bola believes in serving the community as her purpose for the charity. According to her, charity is not just charity but a ministry. Ministry means giving service to the people .Her vision is to reach out, help, and empower as many people of the black community as she can.

Bola, Light Up Black visionary leader, who was not afraid to bring change to the black community. We Salute you!!