Select Lifestyles

#ReclaimingNarratives: Chichi’s Story

Black History Month (BHM) is a time to share, celebrate, and understand the impact of Black heritage and culture, not only in the UK but across the world.

Each year, there is a different focal theme, and this year, it’s #ReclaimingNarratives, which focuses on recognising and correcting the stories of Black history and culture. It is more than just a theme; it’s a movement to acknowledge and appreciate the many contributions of Black individuals throughout history.

We are proud to share and join in embracing, educating, and empowering people through the stories that shape our collective identity.

Introducing Chinonso…

BHM_Chichi

Chinonso Nkem, known as Chichi, has been with Select Lifestyles for over two years. She started as a support worker and is now a Service Manager at St John Square, a supported living service. With a background in business, Chichi initially had limited experience in the care sector, but her passion and resilience helped her grow. She balances compassionate care with strong leadership.

Outside of work, Chichi enjoys going to the gym, which she finds essential for her physical and mental health. She also loves fashion shopping and aims to balance work with family life, with the hope of working from home in the future.

Chichi values Select Lifestyles for its growth opportunities, flexibility for managers, and friendly workplace culture. Recently, an unannounced visit by the City of Wolverhampton Council led to positive feedback, with officials praising her as a true asset to the company.

Chinonso pictured with her support workers during a team night out.
Chinonso pictured with her support workers during a team night out.

The company has supported her development with training, feedback, and courses. She has completed her NVQ Level 3 and is now studying for an NFCE Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care.

For those interested in joining Select Lifestyles, Chichi advises confidence and determination. She describes her service as a comfortable, happy place, known for excellent care and quality meals, thanks to former chefs on staff.

Chichi appreciates the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion but believes more visibility and support for immigrant staff would strengthen it further. Her journey highlights the role of perseverance and a supportive workplace in achieving career success.

More about Black History Month:

If you’d like to get more involved in Black History Month, the Black History Month Magazine is a great place to learn more. The organisation invites everyone to join in. Whether you’re looking for information, want to share your story, or hope to contribute in your own way, they are ready to listen and work with you.

Learn more here: https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/