We are a West Midlands and London based Community Organisation registered in the United Kingdom

Established in 2019 by Dr. Niquita Pilgrim and Gabriel Ayo, The Cultural Connection is a grassroots organisation uniquely positioned at the intersection of mental health, community advocacy, and the criminal justice system. Our work focuses on empowering individuals and dismantling systemic barriers through a collaborative, evidence-based approach.

We deliver targeted interventions across three core pillars:

Mental Health Empowerment and Employability: Our "Steps 2 Success" programme is an empowerment-based employability initiative designed for individuals who, due to complex barriers, have been out of work, education, or training. Delivered in both forensic mental health settings and community spaces, this programme provides holistic support aimed at enhancing mental wellbeing, resilience, and practical skills. We empower participants to overcome systemic obstacles, fostering both personal growth and sustainable opportunities in employment or education, enabling them to shape their own futures.

Community Advocacy and Training: In partnership with community advocates, we support individuals—especially from African and Caribbean communities—to understand and navigate mental health rights and services. This initiative ensures the community is empowered to advocate effectively, particularly within systems like mental health, where voices are often marginalised. By training others, we aim to create a sustainable model that expands our impact across the UK.

Research and Systemic Change: Through rigorous research, we uncover the root causes of systemic inequalities in mental health and allied sectors such as the criminal justice system. Our findings are designed to inform policy, influence systemic reform, and drive meaningful, evidence-based change. By integrating research with actionable solutions, we aim to build a more equitable and just society.

By integrating these three pillars, The Cultural Connection strives to transform individual lives and shape a future where communities, particularly those from historically marginalised backgrounds, can access the resources and opportunities they need. Our work supports mental health and social wellbeing, while also addressing the socio-economic factors that contribute to individuals being caught up in the criminal justice system.

Our Vision, Mission and Values

OUR VISION

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Our vision is to transform the landscape of mental health and criminal justice by becoming a powerful bridge that connects advocacy, support, and empowerment—ensuring that every individual, especially those at risk of falling through the gaps, receives the justice, care, and opportunities they deserve.

OUR MISSION

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Our mission is to collaborate for meaningful change in the mental health system and allied sectors, ensuring fairness and justice. We strive to create and provide equal opportunities and outcomes for all, especially those who are marginalised and disadvantaged.

OUR VALUES

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Our values function as guiding principles that shape our actions and decisions:

Collaborative

Collaborative

We believe in working together for greater impact.
Consistent

Consistent

We prioritise reliability and consistency to ensure continuity and trust.
Compassionate

Compassionate

We approach our work with empathy, care and understanding.
Creative

Creative

We innovate and think outside the box to find new solutions for mental health challenges and systemic inequalities.
Committed

Committed

We are dedicated to creating meaningful change and ensuring better life opportunities for those who engage with our services.

Meet The Founders

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Dr Niquita Pilgrim, PhD CPsychol - Programmes & Partnerships Lead and Chartered Psychologist

I bring a wealth of experience in developing evidence-based interventions and collaborative strategies to address disparities across sectors such as mental health, education and the criminal justice system. My work as a Specialist Mental Health Practitioner with social services and as an Associate Hospital Manager for the NHS has provided me with a strong foundation in safeguarding, inclusive practices, and supporting high-risk children, young people and vulnerable adults.

The Cultural Connection matters deeply to me because it embodies a mission of creating meaningful change for marginalised communities, ensuring fairness and justice in accessing vital resources. As Co-Founder, I am passionate about empowering individuals on the margins of society and working collaboratively to dismantle barriers that hinder their wellbeing and life trajectories.

Gabriel Ayo - Youth & Community Engagement Lead and Business Mentor/Consultant.

As a commercial property owner, I manage a successful portfolio that includes vibrant restaurants, cocktail bars, and venue spaces in Birmingham and various locations across London. In my role as a business and money management consultant, I leverage my expertise to guide others in establishing sustainable income sources. Additionally, I co-owned a pupil referral unit in Croydon, London, where I supported young individuals facing emotional and behavioural challenges through mentorship and facilitated their reintegration into mainstream education. My unique combination of experience in youth culture and business empowers me to actively engage with communities and help them navigate systemic barriers.

As Co-Founder of The Cultural Connection, I am deeply committed to the organisation’s vision of enhancing the mental health and life trajectories of marginalised communities. The mission to foster meaningful change within the mental health system resonates strongly with me, as I am passionate about creating equal opportunities and advocating for fairness and justice for those who are often underserved.

Gabriel Ayo

Research & Advocacy Hub

At The Cultural Connection, our research and advocacy hub drives systemic change by uncovering and addressing the root causes of inequalities in mental health and allied sectors, such as the criminal justice system. Collaborating with Lived Experience Experts, Practitioners, Academics, and the Black Health and Humanities Network, we employ innovative anti-oppressive methodologies to challenge entrenched structures and foster equity. Our work informs policy, influences systemic reform, and empowers communities to hold systems accountable. Key projects like the Steps2Success employability programme and the Breaking the Cycle report reflect our commitment to actionable insights that create real-world impact.

Highlights of Our Work

• Groundbreaking Research: Award-winning work, such as those on anti-Black racism in mental health, have shaped public discourse and institutional reform.
• Advocacy in Action: Collaborations with NHS England and local communities amplify voices often marginalised in systemic decision-making.
• Transformative Impact: Initiatives like our evaluation frameworks ensure lived experiences remain central to our work, bridging research with practical solutions.

If you’re interested in partnering with us or learning more, please get in touch using the enquiry form on our Contact Us page. Together, we can build a more equitable and just society.

Our Clients, Funders and Partners