An award-winning social enterprise in Harrogate is celebrating a successful Black History Month event.
SVH Inc. CIC recently hosted ‘Potted Conversation’ at the Time Together space in Starbeck in early October.
Supported by Time Together CEO Louise Terzza, the gathering welcomed representatives from the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, Harrogate & District Community Action, Enterprise Works at the University of York, and Yorkshire Housing Association.
Facilitated by CEO Valentina Hynes, ‘Potted Conversations’ used the symbolic activity of planting onion seeds, a very versatile, resilient and all-round beneficial crop to represent migration, acceptance, nurture and inclusion and how it fosters resilience.
Valentina said:
“This event provided a unique opportunity to discuss inclusion and challenge perceptions, fostering a more empathetic society."
Rachel Cullivan from the University of York said:
“We’ve touched on interesting topics, talking about diversity and how we all make a whole.”
Suzanne Gamache praised the experience, saying:
“This has been wonderful—from the food, to the metaphors, to literally planting seeds.”
Community Voices on Real Challenges
The event highlighted challenges faced by diverse communities.
Attendee Mibel Odukoya said:
“The challenges are immense when you’re from a different culture; from housing to employment.
“Many of us leave for places where it’s easier to integrate. My dream is to open an African fashion design shop in Harrogate, but the barriers are immense.
“Events like this help us work together to create change. I also love that it was an inclusive event that allowed me to bring my children along, and they were catered to so we could converse properly.”
Support from Local Businesses
A flash raffle, sponsored by local businesses like All Nations Supermarket, Mama Doreen’s, Body Shop, Everyman Harrogate, and Whitby based Hetty & Betty, showcased community and regional collaboration, enhancing the event’s inclusive and supportive atmosphere.
About SVH Inc. CIC
Recognised with the West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce Raising The Bar Community Impact Award and listed among the NatWest SE100 Top 100 UK Social Enterprises, SVH Inc.
CIC continues to lead in promoting workplace and community wellbeing working with organisations and communities to achieve workplace wellbeing, meeting their CSR and SDG goals through mental health training, away days, and community initiatives.
CEO Valentina Hynes was recently listed on WISE100 Top 100 UK Women Social Entrepreneurs and awarded 2023 Business Woman of the Year at the Yorkshire Choice Awards.
She said she looks forward to building on ‘Potted Conversation’s’ success and engaging more organisations to boost our region and communities welfare and economy.
For more information, visit www.svhinc.co.uk or call 01423582034.
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