About Us
Our Story
Coempowered began with a simple yet powerful idea: education is a fundamental right, not a privilege. In 2021, we started as a small initiative focused on Philosophy for Children (P4C), philosophical inquiry, and critical thinking. Our goal was to equip young people with the tools to question, reflect, and engage meaningfully with the world.
When the Taliban banned girls from education in Afghanistan, our work took on new urgency. We partnered with online schools to offer critical thinking, creative writing, leadership, and empowerment programs to students who had been cut off from learning. As more volunteers joined, bringing different skills and perspectives, Coempowered grew beyond its philosophical roots. We began integrating community-building, creative expression, and capacity development, expanding what we could offer.
In August 2024, we took a major step forward by incorporating as a nonprofit organisation, with the vision of becoming a charity. Our approach brings together philosophy, critical and creative thinking, psychoanalysis, and critical pedagogy—not as separate subjects, but as tools for education, empowerment, and community capacity building. We focus on Persian and Kurdish speakers from disadvantaged backgrounds, including refugees and asylum seekers in the UK and around the world. Through dialogue-based and community based learning, creative expression and mental health awareness, we help individuals and communities build skills and confidence.
Today, Coempowered is at a turning point. We have built a small but committed network of volunteers, but to grow sustainably, expand our reach, and develop more structured programs, we need support. To move forward, we are working to register as a charity, secure funding, and strengthen partnerships.
We are looking for partners, educators, funders, trustees, and advocates who believe in the power of critical and creative education. Whether you are a teacher, researcher, mental health professional, artist, or someone passionate about education and social change, we invite you to be part of this journey.
Our Values
Curiosity
We believe in the power of questioning and lifelong learning. Encouraging open inquiry helps individuals and communities grow in meaningful ways.
Integrity
We are committed to honesty, transparency, and staying true to our mission. We hold ourselves accountable to the people we serve and the values we stand for.
Equity
Everyone deserves the chance to learn, contribute, and thrive. We work to create inclusive spaces where all voices are valued and respected.
Community
Learning is not an individual pursuit but a shared experience. We foster dialogue, connection, and mutual support in everything we do.
Resilience
Education should empower people to face challenges with confidence. We value perseverance, adaptability, and the ability to think critically in difficult situations.
Students and beneficiaries engaged
hours of teaching delivered
workshops facilitated
passionate volunteers contributing
Our Objectives
The advancement of community capacity building to support integration of asylum-seekers and refugees through education, vocational training, cultural engagement programs
To advance education for the benefit of the public, particularly among socially and/or economically disadvantaged young adults and youth, by promoting the development of their skills in critical and creative thinking, critical pedagogy, and other philosophical techniques so that their personal and social lives are enriched.
To promote the preservation of good mental health of the above-mentioned groups by increasing the understanding of mental health and mental health problems, gathering and disseminating information, raising awareness, promoting understanding, and challenging stigma and discrimination.
Facts About Us
Our Statements
Mission
Our mission is to make education, mental well-being, and community-building accessible to those who need it most. We help young people, refugees, and asylum seekers—especially Persian and Kurdish speakers—develop the skills to think independently, express themselves, and navigate challenges with confidence.
Through philosophical, critical, and creative education, we encourage deeper thinking and open dialogue. But education alone isn’t enough. Many of those we support face isolation and uncertainty, so we also focus on mental well-being, creating spaces where people can build resilience, connect with others, and find their voice. Finally, we believe learning should lead to real opportunities. Through community capacity building, we help people develop practical skills, take on meaningful roles, and contribute to the spaces they live in. Whether through training, cultural engagement, or collective projects, we support individuals in shaping their own futures—together.
Vision
We want to live in a world where education is accessible to everyone, no matter their background. A world where learning isn’t just about gaining knowledge but about thinking freely, expressing ideas, and building confidence. We see strong, connected communities where people support one another, share knowledge, and create real change.
To work towards this future, we want to grow into a leading space for critical and creative education, mental well-being, and community-building. We aim to expand our reach, refine our approach through critical pedagogy, and develop strong methodologies that make learning more accessible, engaging, and transformative. To achieve this, we will work with partners, educators, and researchers who share our vision, ensuring that our programs continue to evolve and respond to real needs. We hope to build a lasting organisation that empowers individuals and communities, ensuring that those who were once excluded have the power to lead, create, and thrive.
Our Team
Coempowered is held together by a small, dedicated group of people who care deeply. Educators, mentors, artists, researchers, facilitators, philosophers and volunteers—all bringing their time, knowledge, and heart to the work.
We are not a large organisation, but we are consistent. We show up. Together, we create spaces for learning, reflection, and connection—especially for those who are often overlooked. Our work crosses fields: critical thinking and philosophy, mental well-being, community building, dialogue, and creative expression. But at its heart, it’s about people supporting people.
No one here does this for recognition. We do it because we believe in what’s possible when people feel seen, heard, and empowered.
There are many ways to get involved. You can help us take the next step by joining as a trustee as we prepare to register as a charity. You can volunteer your time, donate, offer strategic advice, or partner with us on shared projects. We also welcome consultants who can support our growth—especially in areas like governance, outreach, and long-term planning.
Teach & Mentor
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Lead Workshops
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Our Approach
