Glasgow charity says it has 'turned young people away from crime'

African Challenge Scotland, based in Springburn, has been providing young black and ethnic people with integrated and equal opportunities for the last 10 years.

From its mentoring programmes to homework clubs, the North Glasgow charity is keeping youngsters on the right track and the city out of 'London-like' troubles.

Speaking exclusively with the Glasgow Times, Ronier Deumeni, founder of African Challenge Scotland, said: "We believe this organisation and our programmes have been positive on children and young people in our community.

"What we're doing is turning kids away from crime and drugs. If we weren't here, imagine how many people would be in trouble with this.

"We make sure that young people and children of black and ethnic origin have opportunities and options in society because if not, Glasgow will just become London one day."

READ MORE: Rutherglen woman to walk West Highland Way for charity

The charity says it started 10 years ago due to the lack of opportunity for young black and ethnic people in Glasgow. The team works to advance education, raise awareness of inequality, alleviate poverty, and build more successfully integrated communities.

Ronier said: "We exist to create opportunities for black and ethnic people, to ensure their voices are heard and they’re fully integrated into the community and where they live.

"Glasgow is a very diverse society but the opportunities available for black and ethnic minorities are very unequal and not reflective of our community today, which we want to raise awareness of.

"We make sure we put opportunities on the table and encourage young people to grab them.

"We want to make young people confident to freely express themselves, support their mental health and ensure that we help them keep fit."

The charity offers homework clubs, family support, mentoring and ambassador programmes, language tutoring, and a range of sporting activities and classes, all of which are free.

It also runs men's and women's clubs, which are designed to help older adults understand Glasgow culture and break down the language barrier.

READ MORE: Schoolgirl's emotional Glasgow Kiltwalk in memory of late brother

Speaking on the impact of the charity, attendee Lulu Al-Hadj said: "I feel that this organisation has had a lot of positive effects on me.

"I have been getting good grades and enjoyed all the STEM activities that the organisation provided.

"The sport and physical activities after studying is a really good idea too, I feel like I have something to look forward to after studying."

While youth programme volunteer El De Tchuessa Valiny Kounda added: "I got an internship thanks to the advice of Ronier.

"I like that there is a place where young African people can gather to learn and enjoy together.

"It is inspiring and helps to reduce delinquency."

The charity has found that helping young black and ethnic children in Glasgow has been nothing short of a 'privilege'.

Ronier added: "I'm very proud of myself and my team to be able to provide young people and families with support.

"Glasgow is our home and we're delighted to bring advanced and great services that young people and adults need.

"Our society is very diverse, and we want to see that reflected in society and it will take all our voices to create change.”

To find out more about the work African Challenge Scotland does, click HERE

Services are available to parents, families and young people between the ages of one to 25.