Amelia

Neighbourhood: Failsworth

I grew up in Failsworth, I enjoy nature and I like to take photos of landscapes. I have watched Failsworth evolve over the years. The area has a mix of people of all ages and has good public transport links to the city centre and Oldham. Local landmarks include Daisy Nook Country Park and Failsworth Pole.

I have been involved in various projects at Factory International and have worked in front of house for various arts organisations. It’s been great watching people enjoy and be mesmerised by the arts and live events. As a neighbourhood organiser I enjoy sharing exciting opportunities with my community and I want to encourage young people from my area to consider a career in the creative industry, as these opportunities are not talked about in schools enough.

Chantelle

Neighbourhood: Oldham

I work part-time in retail. I am passionate about fashion, styling, reading, writing, and creating. I am a member of Hack Oldham, Oldham-based Lingua Franca World Community CIC, and I also support Culture Word’s poetry and writing event in Oldham. I’m a fashion vlogger. I love meeting people and writing about their style choices. I have a supportive husband and family who encourage what I do.

I have always loved MIF and Factory International for the shows and events they put on, and introducing the public to new art forms. When the opportunity came up to be a Neighbourhood Organiser, I jumped at it!

I believe I can help Factory International connect with the different communities in Oldham and they can learn a lot by tapping into its rich, diverse cultural heritage. I’m hoping that together, we can create something that will enhance both the community and Factory International.

Marie

Neighbourhood: Wythenshawe

I am a dedicated community activist from Wythenshawe. I am passionate about creating age-friendly spaces and addressing gender gaps in work and pensions for women over 55. I am an integral member of Manchester Art Gallery’s Uncertain Futures advisory group. My commitment to the community extends beyond my work, as I am a devoted mother and grandmother.

I find inspiration in my surroundings and I use this and my experiences to advocate for older women and in my own creativity.  

I have a wide-ranging network of contacts in various community groups, from family centres to local radio stations and a range of communities in between. My involvement with good neighbour groups, local social groups, football clubs and event spaces demonstrates my dedication to creating a sense of unity and support within Wythenshawe and, ultimately, the city. My ambition is to make Wythenshawe a more inclusive, age-friendly and welcoming place for all.

Shar

Neighbourhood: Ancoats

Hi, I’m Shar. I’ve lived in Ancoats for 27 years and I'm a youth and community worker. I accidentally started MGTYouth, Manchester’s Got Talent Youth, during lockdown with my son Zeriah. We cheered people up with online games and talent shows. After lockdown, I felt young people needed more support than ever, and our organisation grew from there.

We host events and projects that aim to build confidence through music and art. We support young people and the wider community by sharing opportunities, supporting families, promoting cultural awareness, and bringing the community together.

Over the years, I’ve seen the area develop, but people who don’t have a lot of money can’t always afford the new facilities, and there’s not much for the youth to do. My role as a Neighbourhood Organiser has given me an opportunity to offer exciting opportunities to my community, giving them a place to go and try something different.

Zeriah

Neighbourhood: Newton Heath

I am Zeriah, director of MGTY, a youth organisation tailored for community growth and togetherness. Our work consists of events, projects, podcasts, radio shows, litter picking, and feeding the homeless to help create more diversity and companionship within the community.

I am also the CEO of School of Barbering (SOB), an organisation that gives young people an opportunity to become more confident and determined and to create a successful future for themselves by teaching them how to cut hair, network, provide customer service, and use social media marketing. 

In my role as Neighbourhood organiser for Newton Heath I am interested in helping the community learn more about Factory International and encouraging people to get involved with all the opportunities, projects and events that take place. I want to help our communities grow together and focus on how we can all unite. 

Patrick

Neighbourhood: Moston

I am a filmmaker, born and raised in Moston. Despite spending several years living across England and for a short time in the US, I am always led back to the place that I call home. I’ve worked in various roles in Television and Film. The spirit of the people within Moston has inspired me greatly and my first short film shot in Manchester, The Spirit of ’58, was predominantly filmed in Moston, giving me a great sense of pride.

I’ve also worked with various mental health organisations to help challenge the stigma around mental illness and create opportunities for others through writing.

I believe in the power of the arts as a cathartic tool for exploring one’s identity and unifying communities. I’ve seen first-hand the amazing work that Factory International does, so it goes without saying that as a Neighbourhood Organiser, I can bring that energy to Moston.

Demereece

Neighbourhood: Blackley and Harpurhey

I am a father, poet, writer and full-time postman. I have been lucky enough to work with organisations like The Agency where I created a video game to help young people who struggle with their mental health. It was a great opportunity to turn one of my hobbies into something that can actually help people.

I love living in Blackley and Harpurhey; despite being demonised, the people are full of life, and there is a whole cast of characters that can be found on Harpurhey Market, there is no place like it.

Being a Neighbourhood Organizer gives me the chance to show what Harpurhey and Blackley truly are behind the hysteria. I’m confident that with Factory International’s help, the people here will really see the value they have, and Factory International will be able to see what a strong working-class force we are.