First Minister John Swinney, leader of the SNP, unveiled a transformative new community hub in Glasgow’s South Side today. The Awaz Hub, a long-awaited project funded by Sport Scotland, is poised to become a pivotal space for a myriad of essential services, such as educational support programs, adult wellbeing classes, and cultural events. This hub also serves as a collaborative space for local groups to come together and host activities tailored to the unique needs of the community.
A Decade in the Making
The genesis of the Awaz Hub can be traced back a decade when it was conceived as an extension of the community radio station, Awaz – The Voice of the Community, renowned for championing inclusivity. The hub’s primary objective is to combat the pervasive issue of isolation, a pressing concern in the area. First Minister John Swinney emphasized the importance of providing accessible services and support to the community, underscoring the hub’s role in fostering connections and serving as a trusted source of guidance. With the support of Sport Scotland, the Awaz Hub is poised to offer a diverse array of activities, from group engagements to wellbeing and sports programs, catering to the holistic needs of the community.
Empowering the Community
Rizwan Ahmed, the Project Manager at Awaz, expressed his enthusiasm for the hub’s potential impact on the local community. Having been intricately involved in the project’s evolution over the past decade, Ahmed highlighted the pressing need to support diverse communities and combat the scourge of loneliness, particularly among the elderly population. The hub aims to provide a welcoming space for community members to connect, relax, and escape isolation, fostering a more active and engaged community life. Ahmed lauded the First Minister for his unwavering support of the project, acknowledging his understanding and appreciation for the hub’s mission.
A Beacon of Hope
The Awaz Hub stands as a beacon of hope and resilience in Glasgow’s South Side, offering a tangible solution to the profound challenges of isolation and disconnection. With its diverse range of services, from educational programs to wellbeing initiatives, the hub is poised to transform the community landscape, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment among its residents. As the hub embarks on its journey to enrich community life, the unwavering support of leaders like First Minister John Swinney and passionate advocates like Rizwan Ahmed will undoubtedly propel it towards success, serving as a vital lifeline for generations to come.
