Pamoja means ‘Together’ in Swahili. Pamoja Women Together is a welcoming and inclusive women’s group supporting refugee and asylum-seeking women in Nottingham to build confidence, develop skills, make friends and improve their wellbeing.
The group meets every Friday on a low pressure drop-in basis, with an average of 20-25 women attending each week. Sessions run from 10am to 12pm and are shaped around the interests and ideas of the women themselves, creating opportunities to learn new skills, be creative, practise English, build confidence and enjoy time together in a safe and supportive environment.
To stay connected, a WhatsApp Chat group connects around 100 women who can enjoy online activities and conversations. Women who had previously not been engaging with the group due to living far away or having childcare commitments can stay in touch virtually.
Above all, Pamoja is built on the principle of unwavering support; we celebrate each other’s successes and stand by one another through challenges.
Everyone is welcome here, because we believe that a stronger community begins when women lift each other up.
How we help…
We provide opportunities for women to…
- Build confidence and self-esteem
- Develop new skills and explore new interests
- Practise English in a friendly and informal setting
- Improve physical and emotional wellbeing
- Make new friends and reduce isolation
- Share skills, experiences and cultures
- Take part in activities and experiences outside their usual routines
- Explore Nottingham and the wider are
During the last year, we delivered 45 different workshops and activities, including dance, art, wellbeing, cookery, massage, equine therapy and drumming. The variety of activities gives women the opportunity to try something new, discover their strengths and share their own skills and experiences with others.
Alongside our regular Friday sessions, we organise trips and activities that help women discover new places and feel more connected to their local community. Last year, these included a workshop at Nottingham Castle, a visit to Nottingham Playhouse and a trip to Lincoln.
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Different workshops and activities delivered last year
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Women attend each week on average
We celebrate our participants’ talents and skills by sharing them in a variety of ways. For example, a highlight of our year in 2026 was showcasing the wonderful artwork created by our Pamoja women at a local art studio and we are hosting another exhibition in December!
Our activities are designed to be accessible, welcoming and enjoyable, and are guided by the interests and choices of the women who attend. By creating a space where women can meet regularly, try new things and support one another, Pamoja helps women develop a stronger sense of belonging and community.
I am full of confidence since joining this group. Thank you, you made my day such a lovely day – it’s my new favourite place.
Rabia
The Pamoja Women Together group plays an important role in creating connection and belonging. For many women, arriving in a new country can be isolating, particularly when they are managing language barriers, caring responsibilities or other challenges. Pamoja provides a regular space where women can come together, build friendships, learn from one another and enjoy positive experiences in a supportive environment.