By Progress Godfrey

Founder of Awero Care & Crafts Community Interest Company (CIC), Dr Victoria Olatunde, has secured funding from The National Lottery Community Fund to train disadvantaged women in Blackburn, United Kingdom.

Dr Olatunde explained that the grant would support structured well-being and skills programmes targeting 45 women, marking the organisation’s first major external funding after years of self-financing and volunteer-driven operations.

She said the initiative focuses on practical skills and mental well-being, with a model that combines creative enterprise and social support for vulnerable groups.
As part of its outreach, the organisation partnered with Humraaz Support Services on a project titled Waste to Wonder, where about 20 women were trained to produce fashion items from recycled and thrift materials.

“Everything I do connects creativity and wellness. When women sit together and make something from nothing, that is healing and that is enterprise,” she said.

Olatunde said the programme is designed to make creative work accessible while promoting sustainability and income generation.

Despite past struggles, the Nigerian founder said her work in the UK builds on over 20 years of experience across Africa and Europe, where she has implemented empowerment programmes for women, children and young people using fashion and crafts.

In his goodwill, Councillor Salim Sidat MBE of Blackburn with Darwen Council said the funding reflects the impact of her work. “I have seen first-hand the dedication and impact of her work. This is the first time she has received this level of support, and it is truly well deserved,” he said.