Who We Are
Over 20 years ago a group of students and young professionals, from different backgrounds, came together to improve the life chances of young people living in central Birmingham. What began as an informal community association then developed into a registered charity called the Amina Trust.
The next priority was to purchase premises to develop and consolidate the activities of the Trust. A derelict community hall was then acquired and renovated over a period of two years. The building is called the 'Zawiya' as this is a word that denotes tranquillity, knowledge and enlightenment. These are values that we endeavour to give expression to across the range of our activities.
The Zawiya as well as being the venue for our own community education and development activities also hosts activities and projects linked to a range of public and voluntary sector organisations that share our values and priorities.
Our vision
"Spiritually and socially empowered citizens contributing to a city at peace with itself"
Our aims
The Zawiya seeks to develop multi-faceted programmes that support the holistic development of individuals, families and communities within areas of urban deprivation. This involves activities of a spiritual, social, educational, artistic and economic nature that help to add colour, vitality and harmony to community and city life.
The Zawiya aims to provide a welcoming and stimulating atmosphere in which everyone feels valued. We welcome challenge, the exchange of ideas and are committed to supporting achievement and success through partnership and innovation.
The guiding themes that shape our work are:
§ Helping young people face the future with confidence and compassion
§ Self sufficiency and social responsibility through social enterprise
§ Valuing and sharing spiritual wisdom
§ Social Cohesion – between communities, across generations and between faiths
§ Supporting the quest for knowledge and life long learning |
