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A conversation with Aishah Ahmed Nekiwala
For our second chat in the series where we get to know the Trinity team, we spoke to one of our volunteers, Aishah, for whom Trinity has always been an integral part of her life.
Hi Aishah! Thanks for taking the time out to chat so everyone can get to know you better. You said you've sort of 'grown up' with Trinity, it being part of your life from the beginning. Can you share a bit about that?
Yes. Well, I was born here in East London, and grew up on the same street so I witnessed Trinity Centre's importance firsthand. At one point, the centre served as a mosque where I studied, and it became a space that provided me with more than just religious teachings - it offered a sense of belonging, purpose and community. Trinity played a pivotal role in shaping who I am, which is why at the age of 16, I felt a deep desire to give back by volunteering.
The Centre holds a special place in my heart, not only because of my personal experiences but also because of my family’s connection to it. The Director, Paul Chelliah, was a close friend of my father and they worked together on numerous community projects. Growing up in an environment where service and giving back were celebrated, I naturally gravitated towards supporting Trinity. It has always felt like a second home, a place that nurtured me in my formative years.
Can you share a little about your education journey and how your time at Trinity relates to that?
I attended Plashet Girls School in Newham, achieving 11 GCSEs graded A*-B. I then studied at Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Centre, where I achieved three A*s at A-Level. Although I was offered a place at Cambridge University, I chose to remain close to home, completing my English BA at Queen Mary University London, followed by a PGCE in Education (English) at King’s College London.
The values instilled in me at Trinity also guided my professional journey. I began my career at Ilford County High School, an all-boys grammar school, where I worked as an English Teacher and Head of Student Development and Enrichment for three years.
I am now based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, working as an English Teacher and Head of the Co-Curricular Activities Programme at an all-girls school.
What skills would you say you learned from your time volunteering that have served you well in your career (and life!)?
My time volunteering at Trinity was not only rewarding but also crucial in developing vital life skills. I took on various responsibilities, from reception duties and liaising with external organisations to assisting with paperwork and administration. These tasks taught me the importance of communication, leadership, and teamwork - all skills that have proven invaluable in both my personal and professional life.
The Centre is a vibrant hub of activity, where I had the chance to work with people from all walks of life, enhancing my empathy and adaptability. It also gave me the confidence to lead and take initiative, which continues to serve me well today.
How would you describe Trinity Centre to someone who has never visited?
Trinity was always more than a community centre; it was a place where children, like myself, could grow, learn, and thrive.
The weekly youth group I attended was a highlight of my childhood, offering me a space to explore my identity, make lifelong friends and feel supported by a caring community. I will always cherish the memories of milestone events like the one we had for Trinity's 50th anniversary, where I felt proud to be part of such a lasting legacy.
Anything else you would like to share?
Even though I am now living abroad, my commitment to Trinity remains unwavering. I wish I could volunteer more often and continue giving back to the Centre that gave so much to me.
I believe we must come together to raise funds to ensure that Trinity can continue its incredible work, supporting children, adults and those with learning difficulties. No matter how far I go, I will always be a part of Trinity Community Centre, and it will forever be a part of me.Â
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