Celebrating Majida Sayam: a journey of empowerment | Tenant news

For Volunteer Week (2–8 June), Editorial Panel member Anneka Chambers spoke with East London Habinteg tenant and charity founder Majida Sayam  about her dedication to supporting women. Majida talked about the inspiration behind her charity, Jannaty Women’s Social Society, which offers a safe, welcoming space for women of all backgrounds to connect, learn and grow.

Can you share a bit about your background, Majida?

I was born in Egypt and arrived in the UK in 1984. In 1993, my husband and I became Habinteg tenants, and we were the first to move into a newly developed scheme in East London.

We raised our family here and still enjoy living in our home, which is now also loved by our grandchildren. Being a Habinteg tenant means feeling part of a close-knit community where people are kind and supportive.

When did you realise you wanted to help others?

From the age of eight I joined Zahart, the Egyptian version of the Scouts, and it taught me the values I live by today: helping others, being kind, and working together.

I also watched my mother sew and quickly fell in love with it. That love grew stronger when I studied Business Studies and Dress Making at university.  I always knew I wanted to use my skills to support other women.

How did Jannaty Women’s Social Society begin?

It started when I volunteered at a Mosque in London, teaching women basic sewing and how to upcycle clothes. I realised there was a real need for a space where women could feel safe, learn a variety of skills, feel empowered and support one another.

That’s why in 2010, I opened Jannaty Women’s Social Society, a registered charity and charity shop in Finsbury Park. Jannaty means “My Paradise,” and I see it as a warm, inviting place that’s full of kindness and life.

We sell donated clothes, jewellery, toys and household items, and the money helps fund our community classes and workshops which take place in the training rooms next door.

What kind of classes and activities do you offer?

We run weekly sewing workshops, English classes, mentoring sessions, and yoga and dance clubs. We also hold three weekly Coffee Mornings and a Cooking Club, plus organise community trips to seaside towns.

Each year, we host a Culture Day where everyone comes together to share food and traditions from around the world.

What does female empowerment mean to you?

Empowering women to be seen and heard is at the heart of what we do. Many women who come to Jannaty face social isolation or financial hardship.

We provide a welcoming space where women from all cultures can come together, learn about each other, and respect each other.

How does Jannaty support women?

We support female refugees from countries like Somalia, India, and Turkey, many of whom have experienced trauma and don’t know where to turn for help.

We work with partners like Health Watch and Mind to raise awareness around health and mental wellbeing. In partnership with the Job Centre, we also employ women in the shop, giving them skills and work experience.

What has been your proudest moment?

Receiving an MBE from His Royal Highness Prince William at Windsor Castle in 2022 was overwhelming and humbling.

In 2023, I was honoured with a Points of Light Award for the work I do with Jannaty. The recognition means so much, but my greatest joy is seeing the women in our community grow and thrive.

What message would you like to share with women today?

Be patient, look for success and if you believe you have a dream, the dream will come through.

To find out more about Jannaty’s success stories and volunteering opportunities, visit www.jannaty.info.

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Do you have a story about how you or someone you know is making a difference in your community? We’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch by emailing comms@habinteg.org.uk to share your story and inspire others.