I’ve been with Sands for around two years, having started in May 2023. I saw a post online and felt inspired to join Sands’ round table to help raise the profile of baby loss in Black communities. From there, I trained to become a befriender and now support the online support meetings for bereaved families from Black communities. Alongside this, I also work with the campaigns team to lobby for improvements in care at my local hospitals. I was also proud to do a reading at the Sands Lights of Love event in London in 2023.
I’ve always volunteered in some capacity—it’s a big part of my heritage and family. I initially began volunteering with Sands after the loss of my daughter, ‘Iyanuoluwa’ (which means ‘wonders of God’). At the time, there was no local group near me, and I didn’t feel represented as a bereaved parent. It felt important to share my story and help people from Black communities feel welcome and understood. Volunteering keeps me connected to my daughter and allows me to give back in her memory and honour.
I believe there are many ways to give back within Sands. It doesn’t have to be limited to one particular area—you can volunteer based on your skills and capacity, and move between different roles. That flexibility has been important for me. I enjoy the variety my volunteering offers, as it allows me to continue honouring my daughter in meaningful ways