AWARD-WINNING agency Multicultural Marketing Consultancy (MMC), and women’s group G.E.L. hosted a ground-breaking women’s health event this past week, designed to empower Black women with the knowledge and confidence to better understand and advocate for their own health.
The event brought together expert speakers, including Dr. Karen Joash, Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, and Nurse Consultant Simphiwe Sesane, founder of Black Nurses & Midwives UK, who shared valuable insights on the diverse health challenges women from our community might experience during the different stages of their life, relating to periods, fibroids, fertility, and menopause.
The women’s-only event, held at the London headquarters of global integrated communications agency MullenLowe, provided a safe and secure space for attendees to access vital health information. And to partake in culturally sensitive discussions pertinent to our community.
Dr. Karen Joash, a global leader in maternal and reproductive health said: “Periods and menopause are critical stages in every woman’s life, but for Black women, these experiences can come with additional challenges.
‘We designed this event to give Black women the tools and information they need to advocate for themselves in healthcare settings. Too often, Black women’s voices go unheard when discussing health concerns, particularly in areas like fertility and menopause.’
Patricia Macauley, founder of MMC
“It’s vital that we raise awareness of these issues and equip women with the knowledge they need to manage their health. From heavy periods to the onset of menopause, understanding what’s happening in our bodies allows us to advocate for the care we deserve.”
Nurse Consultant Simphiwe Sesane, an advocate for sexual and reproductive health, said: “Fibroids disproportionately affect Black women, yet we often don’t have the information or support needed to navigate these conditions.
“Whether it’s fertility challenges or dealing with fibroids, our community needs to feel empowered to make informed decisions about their reproductive health. My goal is to ensure women know they aren’t alone and that solutions are available.”
She added: “We designed this event to give Black women the tools and information they need to advocate for themselves in healthcare settings,” said Patricia Macauley, founder of MMC. “Too often, Black women’s voices go unheard when discussing health concerns, particularly in areas like fertility and menopause. By equipping women with knowledge, we aim to change this narrative.”
As well as the presentations the event offered 1-on-1 conversations with the event speakers and registered nurse Cheyenne Morgan and founder of online platform Let’s Talk Gynae.
Participants had the chance to privately discuss personal health concerns, gaining tailored advice on sensitive topics like fertility struggles or fibroid management.
“As someone who has battled endometriosis and faced years of painful periods, I know firsthand how isolating and frustrating it can be when your concerns are dismissed or misunderstood” said Morgan.
“That’s why events like this are crucial, as not only do they provide Black women with an opportunity to have their voices heard on subjects that resonate with our community. But it equips them with an understanding of how to navigate their way through challenges relating to their reproductive health.”
Macauley said: “As the UK prepares to celebrate Black History Month, this event marks a significant step toward addressing the health disparities faced by Black women. By encouraging open dialogue and providing expert-led education, this initiative is set to inspire a much-needed shift in how Black women approach their reproductive health.”
Use the QR codes below to access free factsheets covering the topics covered during the Women’s Health event.
