FLORENCE AREWA

Florence Arewa is a visionary public health champion and the dynamic founder of ThriveTogether, a registered UK-based notfor-profit organisation dedicated to promoting physical and mental health, resilience, and well-being. Her focus is on addressing the unique public health needs of poorly served communities, often termed as “hard-to-reach audiences” in public health efforts, who frequently face limited access to tailored interventions.

Guided by the belief that the challenges we face today—whether social, environmental, or economic—are too vast for any one person or group to address alone, Florence’s work is rooted in the power of collaboration to drive transformative change.

This ethos of collective action has enabled her cornerstone approach to record remarkable outcomes. She mobilises and engages communities through partnerships with faith groups (churches, mosques), local leaders, community groups, and grassroots networks. These collaborations amplify public health messages and campaigns, deliver impactful health awareness and education, and provide tailored interventions that directly address the unique needs of underserved communities, promoting equity in access to vital resources. With a degree in public health and years of experience in local authorities, the NHS, and the voluntary sector, Florence has become a formidable public health practitioner. Her expertise spans health promotion, strategic planning, and community engagement, allowing her to design and lead initiatives that reduce health gaps and promote well-being and inclusion within diverse communities.

At the heart of ThriveTogether’s mission is a commitment to advancing public health, reducing inequalities, and fostering inclusion, and equity. Under Florence’s leadership, ThriveTogether facilitates community-driven initiatives that promote mental wellness, resilience, and holistic well-being. The organisation empowers underserved groups by delivering workshops, training programs, and providing resources to help individuals unlock their personal and professional potential.

Florence’s dedication and innovative leadership have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, she was honoured at the Kent Mental Wellbeing Awards for her outstanding contributions to public health and mental wellness. She continues to be an inspiring force, relentlessly taking a community-centric approach to build healthier, more inclusive communities where everyone can recognise and access the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Through ThriveTogether, Florence continues to inspire, educate, and uplift, fostering a healthier and more resilient community for all. Her vision is clear: to drive transformative change by harnessing the power of collaboration and empowering individuals and communities to take charge of their health, well-being, and futures. Through ThriveTogether, she is turning this vision into a reality—creating a future where thriving is not just an aspiration but a shared reality for all, one initiative at a time.

Her work ensures that public health messages reach those most in need, empowering them with the tools and knowledge to thrive.

A scripture Florence lives by:

“Beloved, I wish above all things that you may thrive in every aspect of life, enjoying good health and prosperity, even as your soul thrives.”

- 3 John 1:2