The Mic Drop Club

Navigating Allyship: Insights from Hilary Cooke |#108

Navigating Allyship: Insights from Hilary Cooke on The Mic Drop Club
Podcast Description:
In this impactful episode of The Mic Drop Club, host Douglas Hamandishe wraps up Black History Month with a thought-provoking conversation alongside Hilary Cooke, an Equality Champion breaking new ground in gender identity, trans and non-binary awareness, and the broader fight for equality. As a woman with a trans history, Hilary shares powerful insights into the realities of allyship and advocacy. Together, she and Douglas dive into the critical role of allyship, the barriers facing marginalised communities, and how genuine support, empathy, and action can empower those around us.
For those dedicated to authentic allyship, especially within Black and LGBTQIA+ communities, Hilary and Douglas explore the importance of safe spaces, challenging media stereotypes, and celebrating all identities. This episode calls for embracing diversity, protecting hard-won civil rights, and re-educating ourselves to foster a more inclusive world.
 
Top 10 Takeaways from the Episode:
 
Allyship Beyond Presence: True allyship means standing up for marginalised voices, especially when they’re not in the room.
Understanding Lived Experiences: Comprehending the real-life experiences of Black LGBTQIA+ individuals deepens empathy and enables allies to dismantle barriers effectively.
Challenging Media Sensationalism: The media often distorts narratives around Black and LGBTQIA+ identities. Understanding the reality beyond sensationalised portrayals is essential for real allyship.
Safe Spaces and Open Conversations: Building inclusive spaces where people feel seen, respected, and safe is essential, especially for those facing intersectional challenges of race, gender, and sexual identity.
Healthcare Awareness and Inclusivity: Many healthcare providers lack understanding of LGBTQIA+ issues, particularly within the Black community. Training on gender identity, faith, and sexuality is crucial for holistic care.
Empowering Community Leaders: By empowering leaders within Black and LGBTQIA+ communities, individuals can own the narrative, drive change, and lead with cultural insight and authenticity.
The Threat of Performative Allyship: Performative allyship undermines progress. Genuine support involves active listening, action, and learning—not just public statements.
Safeguarding Civil Rights Progress: Civil rights gains, especially for intersectional identities, require constant vigilance. Rights can be eroded without active support.
Celebrating Pride Across Identities: Pride must honour all intersecting identities within LGBTQIA+, creating space for the unique experiences of Black LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Education as a Tool for Change: Education is key in challenging biases, improving mental health support, and fostering acceptance. Re-education supports the next generation in fully embracing diversity.
 
In Solidarity, Love for all hatred for none! 
 #Allyship #BlackHistoryMonth #LGBTQIA #Inclusion #Diversity

Advocacy and Change: A Youth Perspective with Medway Youth Council’s Rose |#107

In this engaging episode of The Mic Drop Club, Douglas Hamandishe chats with Rose, a passionate member of the Medway Youth Council. Rose opens up about her journey in youth engagement, from joining the council at the age of 12 to her aspirations of pursuing a career in politics and community service.
 
Rose discusses the importance of volunteering, and sharing personal experiences and insights into the challenges young people face today. From tackling poverty to advocating for equal opportunities, Rose’s story is a powerful testament to the impact youth can have on social change and community involvement.
 
Key Takeaways:
Rose’s Motivation: Inspired by her parents, Rose joined the council to explore politics and make a difference in her community.
Youth Engagement: The Medway Youth Council is open to any young person interested in community service and advocacy.
Social Media & Outreach: Learn how the council uses social platforms and school outreach to engage more youth in important issues
Challenges and Rewards: Rose shares the challenges of volunteering but highlights the deep personal growth and fulfilment that come with it.
Future Aspirations: Rose is dedicated to addressing issues like poverty and equal opportunities for all, with a bright future ahead in politics.
Inspired by Rose’s journey?
 
Join the movement of young people making a difference. Explore opportunities to get involved with the Medway Youth Council or other community organisations. For more information, visit Medway Youth Council and discover how you can contribute to positive change.
 

Beyond the Mind: Demystifying Cognitive Psychology and Uncovering the Self with Anthony Collins |#106

In this illuminating episode of The Mic Drop Club, Douglas Hamandishe welcomes the multifaceted Anthony Collins, a cognitive neuroscience expert with a passion for both scientific research and creative expression. Anthony holds an MSc in Cognitive Neuroscience and a PhD in Psychology from the University of Sussex, where he broke new ground in the field of interpretation bias and its modification in anxiety. His doctoral work explores the intricate brain-mind-body relationship, offering fresh insights into how physiological and cognitive factors influence our mental health.
In addition to his academic and clinical pursuits, Anthony currently works in a specialised mental health service, focusing on patients who have experienced psychosis. He also continues his research at Kent Medical School, aiming to revolutionise low-level treatments for anxiety and pathological worry. But Anthony is more than a scientist—he's also an established music producer, known worldwide under the alias Anthonycollins, blending his passion for techno, progressive, and chill step music with his deep understanding of the human psyche.
In this episode, Douglas and Anthony dive into the misconceptions of cognitive psychology, explore the connection between neuroscience and Eastern philosophies, and uncover the secrets of self-discovery. Anthony’s unique perspective, shaped by both his scientific background and creative endeavours, offers practical strategies for improving focus, memory, and overall mental well-being.
Key Takeaways:
The myths and truths about cognitive psychology and its impact on everyday life.
Techniques to enhance memory, focus, and mental energy, inspired by Anthony's groundbreaking research.
How Anthony blends neuroscience, psychology, and music to inform both his personal and professional life.
A deep dive into the mind-body connection and how it shapes our cognitive biases.
Insights from Eastern philosophy and neuroscience on understanding the concept of "self."
The importance of creating your path, whether as a scientist, creator, or individual in pursuit of personal growth.
Reach out to Anthony to find out more:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-collins-a14630221/
 
Don't Just Live Life, Make Life Boom!

Volunteering Unleashed: How Giving Back Builds Stronger Communities with Fouad El-Manaa | #105

In this inspiring episode of The Mic Drop Club, Douglas Hamandishe sits down with Fouad El-Manaa, a dedicated volunteer and passionate advocate for the charity sector. Fouad shares his personal journey from overcoming hardship to finding purpose and fulfilment through volunteering with MVA.
Fouad dives deep into the importance of the charity sector, explaining how it steps in to fill the gaps where public and private services can't always reach. From supporting small businesses and community groups to providing life-changing resources, Fouad’s story sheds light on the power of giving back.
 
Key Takeaways:
The charity sector’s unique role in delivering support where other sectors may fall short.
How volunteering can transform not only the lives of others but also the volunteer, offering both personal growth and professional development.
Real-life examples of how MVA’s services are helping local organisations in Medway thrive.
The variety of volunteer opportunities available, from writing dynamic content to providing befriending services.
Fouad also opens up about how volunteering helped him find a sense of purpose, sharpen his communication skills, and become an integral part of Medway’s thriving community support network.
Feeling inspired by Fouad’s journey?
Discover how you can make a difference through volunteering. Visit MVA to learn more about available opportunities and how you can contribute your skills and time to help build a stronger community. Visit mva.org.uk, email volunteering@mva.org.uk, or call 01634 812 850 to get started.

Behind the Scenes of Volunteering: Sustainability, Impact, and the Future of MVA with Clare Saunders | #104

In this dynamic episode of The Mic Drop Club, Douglas Hamandishe sits down with Clare Saunders, the Programmes Director at MVA, to discuss the heart and soul of the voluntary sector. Clare, who works closely with the CEO to ensure the growth and sustainability of MVA, shares her insights on what it takes to keep community projects thriving in the ever-evolving landscape of Medway.
 
This episode is packed with key takeaways:
How MVA is leading the way in volunteering, empowering individuals while serving the wider community.
The importance of co-design and real collaboration in creating projects that genuinely meet the needs of local people.
The challenge of ensuring sustainability, from securing funding to delivering on project outcomes.
Clare’s personal mic drop moments on how the voluntary sector can work smarter, not harder, by partnering with health services, businesses, and local authorities.
Clare's passion for community engagement and her belief in amplifying the voices of underserved groups comes through as she discusses how MVA is breaking down barriers to ensure no one is left behind.
 
Are you feeling inspired?
 
Get involved with MVA and be part of the change. Whether you're looking to volunteer or support a project, there’s a role for you. Visit mva.org.uk, email volunteering@mva.org.uk, or call 01634 812 850 to find out more.

Breaking Barriers: Bowel Cancer Awareness and Volunteering with Briony | #102

In this special episode of The Mic Drop Club, host Douglas Hamandishe sits down with Briony, a dedicated advocate for public health, to explore her crucial work in raising awareness about bowel cancer screening and the power of volunteering. As part of the Bowel Cancer UK Screening Service, Briony has been at the forefront of engaging communities, dispelling myths, and encouraging early screening, particularly in Medway and Swale.
Briony shares her journey, from starting in public health initiatives to now leading community engagement projects for bowel cancer screening. She talks openly about the challenges of getting people to participate in screening, especially in hard-to-reach communities. She highlights the importance of trust, communication, and small conversations in raising awareness.
In this episode, Briony covers:
The importance of bowel cancer screening and how early detection saves lives.
The barriers to health screenings in different communities and how to overcome them.
Volunteering opportunities for individuals to become community champions and help spread awareness in their neighbourhoods.
Heartfelt stories of survival and loss emphasise the need for more education and involvement in cancer screening programs.
Briony’s call to action is clear: she seeks community champions to continue her important work once the project concludes. If you have a passion for health advocacy and want to make a difference, this episode is for you!
Are you interested in getting involved?
Reach out to Briony at briony@mva.org.uk or visit MVA to learn how you can become a community champion, help raise awareness, and make a real impact in the fight against bowel cancer.
 

Inspiring Change Through Community & Kindness with Keira Fulmore | #101

In this episode, Keira walks us through the three pillars of the program:
Building rapport with vulnerable communities.
Listening events to uncover the real challenges these groups face.
Providing funding for activities that directly address these barriers.
Keira also shares personal stories from her own volunteering journey during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting how small acts of kindness can transform someone's day and how re-education is key to ensuring marginalized voices are heard.
Key Takeaways:
The power of sharing personal experiences to build trust within communities.
How volunteering can profoundly impact both the individual and the community.
The ongoing challenges in securing funding and quantifying program outcomes, and the role of testimonials and case studies in demonstrating impact.
Keira’s passion for social change shines through as she discusses the importance of amplifying marginalised voices and how platforms like The Mic Drop Club help inspire and drive that change.
Are you feeling inspired?
Get involved with MVA to support programs like the Community Health Catalyst or start your own volunteering journey today. Find out more at mva.org.uk, email volunteering@mva.org.uk, or call 01634 812 850.
 

Unveiling the Heart of Hospice Care: The Transformative Impact of Volunteering in Medway with Martyn & Pat | #100

In this heartfelt episode of The Mic Drop Club, we delve into the powerful stories of those at the forefront of volunteer work in Medway. Hosted by Douglas Hamandishe, Deputy Mayor of Medway, this episode features an enlightening conversation with Martyn Reeves, Chief Executive of Friends of Wisdom Hospice, and Pat, a dedicated volunteer whose personal journey of loss led her to find purpose in giving back.
Together, they share the incredible impact of volunteering on both the volunteers and the community. Martyn discusses the challenges and rewards of running a charity, while Pat opens up about how volunteering at Wisdom Hospice transformed her grief into a new sense of belonging and fulfilment.
This episode also pays tribute to Molly Wisdom, the visionary behind Wisdom Hospice. Molly’s legacy began with a simple yet profound call to action: she raised £2,000 through two coffee mornings, igniting the fundraising efforts that built the hospice. Her determination to create a space of comfort and care for the community continues to inspire volunteers and supporters today.
This episode explores:
The vital role of hospices in providing compassionate end-of-life care and the myths surrounding these spaces.
How Medway’s unique approach to volunteering and community support is making a difference.
Inspirational stories that highlight the joy, purpose, and connection that volunteering brings to both the giver and the receiver.
Inspired by what you heard? Get involved with MVA and start making a difference today. Whether you're a student, a retiree, or somewhere in between, there's a place for you in the Medway volunteer community. Follow in the footsteps of Molly Wisdom—take action, support your community, and be a part of something greater. Reach out to MVA’s Infrastructure Team to learn how you can contribute—visit mva.org.uk, email volunteering@mva.org.uk, or call 01634 812 850.
Don’t just live life—make life. Boom!
 

Get the Warm Fuzzies: Volunteering with Medway Changemakers with Maria Dorey | #99

In this uplifting episode of The Mic Drop Club, we sit down with Maria Dorey, the Volunteering Project Manager for Medway Changemakers, to explore the power of cultural volunteering and the impact it’s having across Medway. Hosted by Douglas Hamandishe, this conversation is all about how volunteering can give you those “warm fuzzies” while making a real difference in the community.
 
Maria, a passionate advocate for volunteering, shares her journey of connecting people with exciting and flexible volunteer opportunities that fit around their busy lives. From working at iconic events like the Sweeps Festival and Christmas markets to smaller community initiatives, Medway Changemakers is redefining what it means to volunteer. Maria explains how they break down barriers such as time constraints and accessibility, making volunteering more inclusive and accessible to everyone.
In this episode, we discuss:
How volunteering can give you that feel-good factor, known as the “warm fuzzies.”
The flexible, short-term volunteer opportunities available through Medway Changemakers, allow anyone to get involved, no matter their schedule.
The personal growth, new skills, and connections volunteers gain, and how these experiences can be life-changing.
Ready to feel the warm fuzzies and make a difference?
 
Join Medway Changemakers today! Whether you’re interested in arts, culture, or community events, there’s a volunteer opportunity waiting for you. Visit medwaychangemakers.org, follow @medwaychangemakers on Instagram, or like Medway Changemakers on Facebook to find out more. Get involved and experience the true power of volunteering!
Don’t just live life—make life boom!
 

Empowering Futures: The Role of Volunteering in Social Regeneration with Munya Badze | #97

Join us on a special episode of The Mic Drop Club as we collaborate with MVA and the Medway Council Mayor's Office to amplify the voices of those making a difference in the voluntary sector. Hosted by Douglas Hamandishe, Deputy Mayor of Medway, this episode features an engaging conversation with Munya Badze, Project Manager for Social Regeneration Programmes at Medway & Swale Health & Care Partnership.
Munya shares his journey in leading social regeneration programs, highlighting the critical role of volunteering in transforming communities and empowering individuals. From his work connecting senior leaders with education institutions to inspire future generations, to his passion for skill development and social impact, Munya’s insights are a must-listen for anyone passionate about making a difference.
This episode dives into:
The importance of volunteering in driving social change and community health outcomes.
How MVA and its partners are creating opportunities for individuals to develop skills and make a positive impact.
Inspirational stories from the front lines of community work that will leave you motivated and ready to take action.
Ready to get involved? Connect with MVA’s Infrastructure Team to learn how you can start making a difference today—whether as an individual or part of a group. Visit mva.org.uk, email volunteering@mva.org.uk, or call 01634 812 850 to begin your volunteering journey.
Don’t just live life. Make life. Boom!
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