On 12th August, I had the privilege of assisting with a walking tour designed to empower a group of women from the global majority by introducing them to some of Manchester's most significant cultural landmarks.
Firstly we gathered in Piccadilly Gardens, a lively spot at the heart of the city, and began our journey through the Northern Quarter, a neighbourhood known for its vibrant street art, unique shops, and rich history.
A key part of the tour focused on helping the women become more self-sufficient, organised, and confident in their everyday lives by supporting them with purchasing tram tickets - an essential skill for navigating Manchester’s public transport system.
The women found this hands-on experience invaluable, boosting their confidence and independence when out and about.
'The day was filled with learning, laughter, and empowerment'
As we continued our walk through the city centre, we passed landmarks such as the Central Library and Manchester Art Gallery, which are not just cultural icons, but also venues where Afrocats have hosted previous sessions, such as the Our Year Legacy project for young asylum seekers in foster care.
By revisiting these spaces, we strengthened participants’ connection to the city and reminded them of the places that have been integral to their journey towards greater self-confidence.
One of the most significant aspects of the tour was the impact it had on the women’s social lives, as many of them shared that they rarely go out unless accompanied by their children.
For some, this tour was a much-needed opportunity to leave the house, reconnect with others, and be sociable again, and it was heartening to learn how the experience helped them break out of their routines and engage with the city and each other in new and refreshing ways.
Our tour concluded at the Royal Exchange Theatre, where we introduced the women to Google Maps, showing them how to use this digital tool to navigate the city.
This was a crucial part of the tour aimed at boosting their digital literacy despite language barriers participants may encounter, and through this activity, the women took another step towards becoming more self-sufficient and organised, empowering them to explore Manchester with more autonomy and freedom.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive as the women expressed that they found the tour both informative and enjoyable, and one participant even danced along the route with her headphones on, a testament to the joy and freedom they felt throughout the day.
The group particularly appreciated the regular stops and discussions, which helped them to engage more deeply with Manchester’s landscape, and reflect on their personal growth.
Overall, this walking tour was about much more than just seeing the sights, it was an opportunity for the women to regain confidence in themselves, reconnect socially, and enhance their digital literacy.
The day was filled with learning, laughter, and empowerment, which as always, was a true reflection of inclusive community spirit of Afrocats.
Words and photos: Amina Beg
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