FROM FOSTER CARE TO COMMUNITY ADVOCATE

FROM FOSTER CARE TO COMMUNITY ADVOCATE

AN INTERVIEW WITH SEKIA BLYE:

In this inspiring interview, Sekia Blye shares her remarkable journey from growing up in foster care to becoming a passionate community advocate.

Through her personal experiences of overcoming the challenges of foster care, Sekia has turned her past struggles into a driving force for positive change. As the founder of It’s A Family Thing CIC, she is dedicated to creating a supportive space for children and families in her community. Her story highlights the power of resilience, compassion, and the importance of fostering a sense of belonging for those who may feel overlooked.

BFCA: Can you start by telling us a bit about yourself and your journey through the foster care system?

Sekia: I grew up in foster care, which had its challenges. Constant changes and uncertainty were tough, but those experiences also shaped who I am today. Even as a child, I found joy in caring for others and creating a sense of belonging wherever I went. Those early experiences sparked a passion in me for helping children feel supported and loved, especially those who might feel invisible or overlooked like I sometimes did.

BFCA: How did those experiences influence your decision to start It’s A Family Thing CIC?

Sekia: The idea for It’s A Family Thing actually came from my daughter. She wanted to connect with like-minded people in our community, and that made

me realise there was a real need for families to come together in a positive and supportive way. I knew that I could use my own experiences – both the struggles and the strengths – to create something special for children and families in our area. Our goal is simple: to give children a space where they can be themselves, build friendships, and create memories that last.

BFCA: What kind of activities does It’s A Family Thing offer, and what impact have you seen so far?

Sekia: We focus on creative play and coach trips, mainly for children aged 5-12. Over the last year, we’ve organized several outings at affordable costs so that no one feels left out. These trips have done more than just provide entertainment; they’ve helped families build lasting friendships, improved health and well-being, and created a real sense of community.

BFCA: What motivated you to take on work and build it into what it is today?

Sekia: For me, it’s all about seeing children and families thrive. When I was growing up in care, I often felt isolated. Now, I want to create spaces where children feel safe, supported, and included. I know how important it is for kids to feel like they belong, especially those who might not always have that in their everyday lives. My motivation is to see those kids smile, make friends, and build memories that stay with them forever

BFCA: How do you keep your groups small, and what difference does that make?

Sekia: We intentionally keep our groups small so that we can focus on each child and family individually. This allows us to provide personalised activities and support, helping each child develop skills, try new things, and grow in confidence. By working closely with local creatives and organizations, we’re able to offer a wide range of activities that cater to different needs and interests. It’s all about finding what works best for each child and making sure they feel valued and encouraged.

BFCA: You’ve mentioned collaboration as a key part of your approach. How do you bring people together to support your work?

and community groups to offer a wider range of opportunities for our families. But it’s not just about what we do – it’s about listening to the community and responding to their needs. My advice to anyone looking to make a difference is to start by asking what people actually want and need. Don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way – collaboration creates stronger, more sustainable projects.

BFCA: What advice do you have for others who want to create positive change in their communities?

Sekia: Start by understanding your community. Ask questions, listen, and be open to new ideas. Building something that truly benefits people takes time, patience, and teamwork. You can’t do it alone, and that’s okay. Lean on others, share resources, and celebrate each step forward. Most importantly, keep your focus on the people you’re trying to help –their needs should guide everything you do.

BFCA: What’s next for It’s A Family Thing? What are your goals moving forward?

Sekia: We want to keep expanding our activities and reach more families, while staying true to our values of connection and care.

children and families build memorable experiences together. We’re also looking to explore more collaborations with local creatives and organisations, so we can keep offering new and exciting opportunities for our community. It’s all about growing together, learning together, and having fun along the way.

BFCA: How can people get involved with It’s A Family Thing or learn more about what you’re doing?

Sekia: We’re always looking for more people to join our mission! Whether you want to volunteer, participate in events, or simply support what we’re doing, there are many ways to get involved.