Our Projects
Key Community Projects and Impact Initiatives
Since its inception, the Esan Community of Manchester (ECM) has remained steadfast in its commitment to preserving our culture, empowering the youth, supporting education, and strengthening the bonds of unity both in Esanland and the wider diaspora.
Yearly ECM Family Day Celebration
Our Family Day celebrations have become a cornerstone of our community, bringing together over 300 families from Manchester and across the UK during each event. These gatherings are designed to strengthen family bonds and create a lasting sense of belonging. Featuring traditional cuisine, music, quizzes and stories for youths, and other activities for all ages. These events serve as a vital platform for connecting different generations through our shared values of love and togetherness.
Donation to North Manchester General Hospital
ECM provided financial support to members who were in need due to the adverse impact of the pandemic and donated the sum of £500 to the North Manchester Hospital as our little token of support in the care of people during the outbreak of COVID-19 epidemic. Though little, it was anchored on our belief for community support, compassion and collective wellbeing.
Professional Development Seminar
ECM held a professional development seminar with members and non-members participating. The programme was designed to support participants in their professional and business development. The programme had sessions in CV writing, job interview skills and business development for and running SMEs. Professionals with strong expertise and experience in their various areas of competence led the presentations and Q&A sessions. The feedback was amazing.
ECM Cultural Day Celebration
In 2023, ECM hosted a landmark Cultural Day that attracted more than 500 families from across and outside of the United Kingdom. This grand showcase featured traditional attire, dance performances, and cultural displays that highlighted the richness of the Esan nation. Beyond the festivities, the event served as a powerful educational tool, instilling cultural pride in our youth and reinforcing the vibrant identity of the Esan people in the diaspora. The event also provided us through our full packed programme of the event the opportunity to share the uniqueness of our rich cultural identity with the invited guests from across the world. The event had in attendance chairmen and councillors from five local government authorities of the Greater Manchester.
Scholarship Support for Underprivileged Students
Recognizing that financial barriers often halt academic progress; ECM introduced a scholarship initiative in 2023. Many talented students struggle to afford registration fees for their school-leaving certificate examinations, which are essential for entering tertiary education. To bridge this gap, ECM provided financial sponsorship for 50 underprivileged pupils, ensuring their academic journeys continue toward a brighter future. The feedback from the beneficiaries was quite inspiring.
“Izesan” Youth Cultural and Mentorship Project (2024–2025)
The “Izesan” Project was a dedicated two-year initiative focused on the cultural education and mentorship of young Esan people growing up abroad. By teaching them Esan language, traditions, and core values, the project helped participants build a strong sense of identity, connection with their root and good values for social cohesion. More than just a cultural program, it provided a positive environment that promoted discipline, leadership, and social responsibility, effectively guiding our youth away from negative social influences.
Medical Equipment and Healthcare Support Project (2026)
In 2026, ECM extended its reach to healthcare through its Health Outreach Programme by donating essential medical equipment and supplies to a clinic in Esanland. This contribution was designed to increase access to healthcare and support healthcare professionals with the medical devices to facilitate delivering timely, and life-saving healthcare. This initiative underscores our deep-rooted commitment to the wellbeing and quality of life of our people back home.
Continuing Our Commitment
These projects are a testament to ECM’s dedication to education, continuous learning, healthcare, cultural preservation and community development and wellbeing. Through unity and a collective spirit of service, we continue to make meaningful contributions even though modest that positively impact lives within Esanland, the UK and our broader community.