As the East End Community Foundation (EECF) celebrates its 35th anniversary, we reconnect with individuals whose lives have been shaped by our grants and programmes.
Over 20 years ago, Nizam, who grew up in the East End, participated in our year-long accredited employment programme. Our Community Self-Help apprenticeship scheme placed unemployed residents with local charities to train as community development workers, enabling them to gain valuable paid work experience and a recognised qualification while simultaneously building the capacity and reach of their employer.
For Nizam, the programme was life-changing, setting him on a path of meaningful work in the local community. Today, he manages St Matthias Community Centre, which not only hosts Neighbours in Poplar, a charity supporting thousands of local elderly residents, but also delivers a nursery, food bank, and a hot meal delivery service for those in need.
Nizam, could you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to join EECF’s Community Self-Help scheme?
When I was in my early 20s, I was looking for opportunities to develop my career, but I didn’t quite know where to turn. That’s when I came across EECF’s Community Self-Help scheme, a programme aimed at building capacity of local charities at the same time as providing employment support to local residents through paid work placements where we also had the opportunity to gain a qualification.
It was a pivotal moment for me, it gave me the guidance and the space to think about my future, and how I could make a real difference in my community.
Looking back, did the programme shape your career?
The programme was absolutely decisive in my career. The best part, for me, was the mentoring I received. Helen Kenney, the Community Engagement Officer at EECF at the time, was my mentor, and she was incredible. She believed in me when I didn’t fully believe in myself.
Whenever I faced setbacks or felt frustrated, Helen was there to offer support. She didn’t just give advice; she listened, talked things through with me, and helped me see new possibilities. The mentorship was a cornerstone of my development.
What made the programme different to others?
The ethos of the programme was all about supporting us as individuals, not just in a professional sense, but holistically, it built our confidence, guided us through available options, and helped us recognise the potential we had.
I remember my first placement didn’t work out quite as I’d hoped. I was feeling disheartened, but Helen reassured me. She said, “Don’t worry, we can find somewhere else.” And she did. She recommended Neighbours in Poplar, which operates out of St Matthias. That one decision changed everything for me.
What was your experience at Neighbours in Poplar, and how did it shape your journey?
I started my one-year placement doing administration. The more I learned about the organisation and its mission to support the local community, the more inspired I became. It was a place where I could see real change happening, and I knew I wanted to be part of that. Over time, my commitment to the work deepened, and it led me to stay involved long-term.
After ten years of contributing to the team, I was entrusted with managing the church (St Matthias). This role involves everything from fundraising to liaising with contractors and managing maintenance. In essence, my job is to ensure the doors of the Centre are always open, welcoming the community. It’s a responsibility I take to heart.
You’ve worked at St Matthias for over 25 years now. What role has EECF played in supporting you throughout this journey?
EECF and its CEO, Tracey Walsh, understand this community better than anyone. I know I can always pick up the phone and reach out for support, and they’ll be there for us. The Foundation’s ongoing investment in local people, like myself, has had a huge impact, not just on me as an individual, but on the wider community.
I think what stands out about EECF’s approach is that they don’t just offer a one-off programme or funding; they build long-term relationships. That support doesn’t stop after a course or placement. It’s a continuous partnership, one that truly empowers people to contribute and lead in their own communities.
Nizam, could you tell us about your role today and how EECF continues to support you?
Today, I manage St Matthias Community Church, which not only hosts Neighbours in Poplar, a charity supporting thousands of local residents, but we also run a nursery, food bank, and a meal delivery service for those in need. EECF continues to play a vital role in our work by way of funding and support. Our meal delivery service has been a massive success, delivering over 55,000 meals so far to isolated, vulnerable older members of our community.
I’m grateful to EECF for being part of my journey. Their belief in me and the community has been a constant source of support, and I look forward to continue carrying that legacy forward.
Talk to us about how you can help
Nizam’s journey is just one example of how EECF empowers communities. To learn more about our work and impact, visit eastendcf.org/our-impact/.
