Hi, I am Fanniza, though most people call me ‘Fizz’. My personal journey has had its share of difficulties, including missing years of education and overcoming language gaps, which helped me develop a strong sense of resilience. Once I gained my qualifications, I noticed that numerous women throughout our city were battling similar obstacles—facing low self-esteem and fewer chances to succeed. This encouraged me to set up my own CIC, Birmingham Community Support, as a secure environment for women to find their voices and gain vital skills. I am a firm believer that your origins should not limit your potential. Together, we are breaking down barriers and building a kinder, more integrated community where everyone belongs.

About us

Our Values

What Others Say About Us

We believe in kindness, respect and inclusion.We welcome women and families from all backgrounds and languages.We value learning, sharing skills and supporting each other.We create spaces where mums and children can learn together through shared workshops and activities.We work together to build confidence, friendship and a stronger community.

A connected, confident community of women in Birmingham where everyone feels seen, heard and valued. A place where language, background or circumstances never stop anyone from learning, sharing skills, finding support and taking part in community projects, workshops and activities.

OUR VISION

Our mission is to bring women together in a safe, welcoming space where language is not a barrier. We support each other to build confidence, learn new skills, share ideas and care for our environment through creative projects, workshops and community activities.

OUR MISSION

Our biggest achievement is seeing mums discover their talents, step out of their comfort zones, and become a support group for one another. Together, we are learning that language barriers and a lack of confidence are not limitations, but strengths that guide us towards a better path and a place where we all belong, share knowledge, and grow.

Achievements

Recognition

Fanniza worked with Birmingham City University on an engagement project as a community researcher between 2021-22. Her lived experience, commitment and desire to change access for women into training and employment became a central part of her work with the research team. At the end of the project, Fanniza was awarded a prize recognising her unique contribution and growth through the project.

Kush May-Chahal, Director of Training Services, Stop Hate UK, formerly Senior Research Fellow, Birmingham City University.

Community recognition

Fanniza Begum is an integral part of the local community. She is the first one to help out in whatever capacity is needed — whether it is supporting young people in youth clubs, women’s empowerment, or bridging community cohesion in the face of adversity. It’s a pleasure to know and have worked with such a person, a real asset to the local community.

Mr Ali, Community Champion

Faith in Nature: Hodge Hill

“Fanniza has been an active partner of ‘Faith in Nature: Hodge Hill’ from the beginning, bringing a natural gift for connecting people together, a love for nature and a real creativity in working with both adults and children. It’s been a joy to partner with her, and there’s much more to come!”

Revd Dr Barrett- Hodge Hill Church

“Fanniza has worked with Footsteps for over two years bringing her understanding of local communities and ability to encourage and mobilise women to Footsteps' work. Fizz, as she is known to Footsteps, organised and brought over 20 families and children from Ward End to a Footsteps 'Here comes the Sun…' community art afternoon at St Cyprians Church to share a fun, creative afternoon, exploring how the Sun helps sustain us all. It was one of Footsteps' most successful events ever. She also took a group from Ward End to Footsteps' summer walk outside Birmingham in the Lickey Hills. Fizz's collaborative and inclusive approach, bringing mums and children from different communities together, adds enormously to Footsteps' activities. She is also a joy to work with.”

Chris Martin & John Nightingale- Footsteps

Footsteps – Faiths for a Low Carbon Future

Voices from Service Users

Community voices (collected by Sobia)

“We received invaluable support through Birmingham Community Support, which has enabled us to grow and reach our full potential. This included tailored employability guidance, workshops at the central library, and advice on the cost of living, including budgeting, managing expenses and accessing available support.

The eco project focused on sustainability, recycling and environmentally friendly practices. Most importantly, our wellbeing was supported through independence and life skills development, including crochet, sewing, keyring and candle making. The group also organised trips which supported mental health, creativity and social connection.”

— Sobia, service user (representing collected community voices)

Community voices (families & eco workshops)

“Birmingham Community Support also delivered workshops for mothers and children, where eco projects were a key focus, teaching how materials can be used and recycled in creative and practical ways. Trips were also organised as part of these activities, providing valuable learning, bonding experiences and community connection.”