YOUbuntu CIC

Hi, I'm Helena

I'm the founder of YOUbuntu CIC and an Anti-Racism & Racial Literacy Specialist with over 20 years' experience working across education, workplaces and community settings.

Growing up as a mixed-race woman, I experienced racism first-hand from an early age. Those experiences, combined with my background in education, inspired me to create YOUbuntu – a place where people can explore race, identity and belonging openly, honestly and without fear of judgement.

Since founding YOUbuntu in 2023, I've had the privilege of working with thousands of students, educators and professionals, helping them build confidence, challenge misconceptions and develop a deeper understanding of one another. I believe lasting change happens when people feel safe enough to ask difficult questions, listen with empathy and learn together. That's exactly what every YOUbuntu session is designed to achieve.

Who We Are

YOUbuntu CIC exists to create safe, engaging and thought-provoking spaces where conversations about race, diversity, inclusion and belonging become opportunities for learning rather than something to avoid.

Inspired by the South African philosophy of Ubuntu – "I am because we are" – we believe that understanding each other's stories strengthens all of us. Through honest conversations, shared experiences, history and culture, we help people explore challenging topics with curiosity, empathy and respect. Our aim isn't to tell people what to think; it's to give them the confidence, knowledge and understanding to think differently, connect more deeply and contribute to more inclusive communities.

How We Help

We deliver interactive workshops, staff training, assemblies, keynote talks and facilitated discussions for schools, colleges, universities, workplaces and community organisations across the UK.

Every session is designed to be engaging, practical and memorable, combining lived experience, historical context, open discussion and interactive activities that encourage participation from everyone in the room. Whether we're supporting young people to understand identity and respect, helping staff respond confidently to racism and discrimination, or guiding organisations towards more inclusive cultures, our focus is always the same: creating meaningful conversations that inspire understanding, encourage action and leave a lasting impact long after the session has finished.

1000's

Students Supported

100's

Workshops Delivered

50+

Schools Partnered With

See Our Testimonials

[SAMPLE] The workshop was incredible. Helena created a space where everyone felt safe to learn, ask questions, and grow together. Our staff came away with real tools they could use immediately.

Sarah T. — Head of PSHE, St. John's School

[SAMPLE] YOUbuntu's training has had a lasting impact on our whole school community. It shifted the way we talk about race and inclusion.

Dr. Emily R. — Principal, Crestwood Academy

[SAMPLE] Working with Helena was a turning point for our organisation. She challenged us thoughtfully and left us with a clear roadmap for meaningful change.

Mark L. — HR Director, Novartis UK

[SAMPLE] Helena's energy is contagious. The students were completely engaged from start to finish.