Projects
Find out about some of our projects
Youth Outreach and Detached Project
During lockdown we developed a project to engage with young people to encourage them to maintain their mental well-being, support each other through networks and participate in virtual sporting sessions. The project was successful in helping young people navigate challenging situations and connect through periods of isolation.
Women's Leadership Project
Working with London Youth, a group of young women were supported to engage in leadership and sports development activities. They were provided with one-to-one development sessions, taught key skills and connected to a peer network.
Covid Community Response Project
The pandemic created challenges for the organisation's outreach work. Working with Sports England and City Bridge Trust, Ekota developed new ways of engaging virtually and worked to strengthen its social media and digital platforms to support this work.
International Women’s Day
On International Women’s Day, Ekota, in partnership with Barking and Dagenham Council brought together a diverse group of outstanding women to share their lived experiences. This content was shared virtually and through social network platforms with high levels of measured engagement. The networks created from that day continue to be built upon, and we will continue to develop this further.
Mental Health and Wellbeing 1-2-1 Support
This project aimed to support a range of at-risk individuals with direct support to help them through mental health challenges such as anxiety. Qualified coaches provided ongoing support to help provide coping mechanisms, access support and build resilience.
Activities and Games using a Social Distancing Model
During the many periods of lockdown Ekota organised a range of virtual sporting sessions such as cricket and football. This was challenging but our coaches managed to develop sessions which allowed us to engage and work around what could and could not be done! In addition during the periods when restrictions were lifted a number of social events such as ‘zorb’ football was held to encourage young people to return to activities in a safe and fun manner.
Health Education Project
This project was developed through the support of Sports Lottery Funding. Adults and teenagers were encouraged to learn more about physical and mental well-being, how to cope with issues such as isolation and participated in Ekota sporting activities - in person or virtually. Many of those who got involved through this project are still currently involved with the organisation resulting in a strong legacy for all.
I Soul Volunteers Training
I Soul Volunteer’s training package is a project delivered in partnership with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport and The National Lottery Community Fund. This fantastic programme involved training several volunteers in leadership, risk management and strengthening broader voluntary skills. Those involved have given excellent feedback on this learning opportunity and its impact.
Access to Coaching Training
Ekota is always keen to work with our volunteers to strengthen their skills. We have provided a number of opportunities to individuals to achieve coaching qualifications including recent training of a number of female cricketing coaches.
Community Events and Promotion
Ekota has held numerous community celebration events. This includes annual celebrations to recognise achievements and mark the end of Dynamo and All-Stars programmes.
