Voices from the Tackling Poverty Assembly

Part 11 – Omonigho Gloria Idegun | Wrexham African Community

As part of our continuing coverage of the Wrexham Poverty Action Collaboration (WPAC) Tackling Poverty Assembly, we’re sharing the voices, experiences and ideas that are helping shape community-led action to tackle poverty across North East Wales.

Every presentation adds another piece to the picture, helping ensure lived experience informs future action and accountability.

The latest speaker in our series is Omonigho Gloria Idegun, Founder of the Wrexham African Community, whose presentation combined honesty about the challenges people face with an unwavering belief in the power of kindness and community.

Omo began by speaking proudly about Wrexham and the positive relationships that have helped many families build new lives here.

She described the city as a place people are proud to call home.

Alongside those positive experiences, she also shared some of the barriers that continue to affect members of the community.

Language and communication can make accessing essential services much more difficult. Omo gave the example of people struggling to communicate over the telephone when contacting GP surgeries, leaving some feeling unable to access the healthcare they needed.

She also reflected on the impact that hostile public narratives can have on people’s confidence, wellbeing and mental health, particularly for those who already feel vulnerable.

Yet throughout her presentation, Omo remained focused on hope rather than division.

She reminded the Assembly that communities become stronger when people choose understanding over fear and compassion over prejudice.

Her closing words captured that message perfectly:

“If we can do anything for this community… let’s show them love.”

It was a fitting conclusion to a presentation that celebrated community, recognised real challenges and reminded everyone present that lasting change begins with how we treat one another.

🎥 Watch Omo Idegun’s presentation here:

Over the coming weeks we’ll continue sharing presentations from community leaders, organisations and people with lived experience who contributed to the Assembly.

Together these voices are helping build a clearer understanding of poverty across North East Wales and shaping practical, community-led action for the future.

Every story shared brings us one step closer to creating fairer systems and stronger communities.