Usman Khan looks back on the 2020 Breaking Boundaries programme through his perspective as the Birmingham Activator

 Breaking Boundaries is a three-year programme (2018 –2021) funded by Spirit of 2012, supported by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and The Institute of Community Cohesion (Icoco).

We look back on the Breaking Boundaries programme in 2020 with Birmingham Activator Usman Khan.

1. What are the main aspects of the project Breaking Boundaries that resonate with you the most?

Giving back to the community. Whether that is community groups getting the appropriate recognition and support or them then utilising their expertise to better their own communities. There is a lot of giving on this project and community is at the centre of it all.

2. What key challenges did you find in your role for Breaking Boundaries this year?

Having to adapt to not being able to see people face-face, supporting people in difficult times and being there for them at very sensitive moments.

3. What difference do you feel you made as a Breaking Boundaries Activator this year?

I feel as though I have always been on hand to support my community groups and feel my relationship with them has grown deeper and there is much greater appreciation between us now as well as trust.

4. Are there any key stories or moments you can recall that occurred during this year for Breaking Boundaries that reinforced that project's core values?

Being a part of a community event organised by Unity Streets CIC where we saw multi-cultural people coming together and having fun by playing sports and enjoying various cuisines really reiterated the purpose of this project and showed how simple it can be.

5. What key stories did you uncover this year as part of your role for Breaking Boundaries?

The need for community groups is vital without them projects such as this one cannot work. But for organisations to exist and do well they need constant support and appropriate recognition to flourish. These groups hold the key to bringing down barriers and tackling problems in society.

6. If you could summarize your experience on Breaking Boundaries this year in three words what would they be?

        Challenging, eye-opening, unforgettable