Al-Manaar Muslim Cultural Heritage Centre (MCHC)
Category: Best Women’s Services
Institutional Information
For over two decades, Al-Manaar Muslim Cultural Heritage Centre has stood as a beacon of community cohesion, education, and wellbeing in West London. The centre is dedicated to serving, educating, empowering, and inspiring people of all ages and cultural backgrounds through inclusive programmes that promote health, learning, and unity.
Representing Al-Manaar, Intlak Alseigh holds a BA in English Education and previously spent 18 years teaching English to Year 9 students in Iraq. Since moving to the UK, she has devoted 24 years to community service as Elderly Wellbeing Programme Manager, playing a vital role in advancing women’s health, empowerment, and social inclusion.
Under her leadership, Al-Manaar has launched a wide range of initiatives addressing physical health, mental wellbeing, and cultural enrichment — from cancer screening and healthy heart campaigns to yoga, mindfulness, digital literacy, and art sessions. The centre also celebrates Eid and Iftar events, International Women’s Day, Silver Sunday, and community heritage trips, creating an environment where women of all backgrounds can connect, learn, and thrive together.
Through this work, Al-Manaar continues to be a safe and welcoming space where women are supported to flourish spiritually, emotionally, and socially.
Details of Nominated Work
The Elderly Wellbeing Programme, led by Intlak Alseigh, champions women’s empowerment, health, and inclusion through a holistic approach that addresses their physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.
Health & Wellbeing Initiatives
A six-month Cancer Screening Awareness Campaign, the Healthy Heart Programme (2025–2028), and regular yoga, aerobics, chair exercise, massage therapy, and mindfulness sessions have encouraged women to prioritise their health and adopt active lifestyles.
Educational & Creative Activities
Weekly digital literacy classes, Qur’an and Tajweed lessons, and creative workshops in art, embroidery, and glass painting have provided women with new skills and confidence. The Grenfell Memorial Art Project has supported emotional recovery and creative expression, particularly for those affected by trauma.
Social & Cultural Engagement
Community events such as International Women’s Day, Silver Sunday, Eid and Ramadan Iftars, and Kensington Palace community celebrations have strengthened bonds across generations, promoting diversity, inclusion, and mutual understanding.
Intergenerational & Outdoor Activities
Partnerships such as the Park Walk & Talk Programme with Asra Club, alongside visits to Kew Gardens, Windsor Castle, Hampton Court, and other heritage sites, have fostered shared learning and wellbeing among women of all ages.
Nutrition & Lifestyle Support
Cooking classes, healthy eating workshops, and coffee mornings have helped women explore nutrition and wellbeing, while the Together Cookbook collaboration with Meghan Markle celebrated their resilience and cultural richness.
Community Integration & Partnerships
Collaborations with Kensington & Chelsea Council, the NHS, the Metropolitan Police, and local voluntary groups have built trust, access, and empowerment for women within and beyond the community.
During the Grenfell Tower tragedy, Intlak’s leadership was instrumental in providing emotional and practical support to affected families, ensuring women and vulnerable residents received the care they needed.
Through these ongoing initiatives, the Elderly Wellbeing Programme has created a lasting impact — strengthening women’s voices, improving health outcomes, and building a connected, compassionate community.
Supporting Evidence
The impact of Al-Manaar’s women’s programmes is reflected in the lives of the women themselves. Many who once felt isolated, overlooked, or disconnected have found confidence, community, and purpose through the centre’s support. They now prioritise their health, wellbeing, and personal development — becoming active contributors to their families and wider society.
These outcomes are particularly meaningful for women who have migrated to the UK and faced challenges adjusting to a new culture and environment. Al-Manaar has helped them overcome isolation, develop friendships, and gain the skills needed to lead fulfilling, independent lives.
The Elderly Wellbeing Programme has not only transformed individual lives but also redefined how community spaces can empower women — offering safety, sisterhood, and self-belief. The achievements of these women represent the true success of the programme and the heart of Al-Manaar’s mission.
Video and photographic evidence attached in the supporting folder illustrate the programme’s impact, showcasing real stories of women’s empowerment, healing, and growth.
