Bernadette Ashcroft, the Collective’s Chief Executive, was delighted to be invited to the event celebrating 5 years of WETA, at St Bride’s Church, Old Trafford on 3rd October 2024.

Led by Razia Shaikh-Patel the ladies of WETA came together in spectacular style and Bernadette was honoured to hear their stories of resilience, bravery and community spirt.

They were also joined by Fay Selvan – CEO of The Big Life Group, Sharmila Kar – Executive Director of Equality and Empowerment NHS,
Tayyab Akhlaq – Owner of the Chaiiwala chain in Manchester, Dr Zainab Suleman and Councillor Bilal and Councillor Waseem.

Bernadette was fascinated to hear how the Collective’s member WETA became established based on the mindfulness and sense of well being that Henna art brings and how this had led onto a range of arts and cultural activity for the community to join as well as contributing as valuable volunteers.

A number of the ladies bravely talked about their experiences of coming to England with little English language and knowledge of the North of England and how their connection to WETA has built their confidence and resilience which will be passed to their children and contribute to a strong community for the future.

Should you wish to find out more about the wonderful work being done by WETA please get in touch via info@traffordcollective.org.uk and we will put you in touch. Or you can contact Razia via  info@wetacic.org