About Awakening Minds

Empowering Punjabi communities through mental health support, education, and advocacy since 2006

About Our Foundation

We Are On A Mission To Ensure No One Suffers Alone

Since 2006, Awakening Minds Practice has been a beacon of hope in Rochdale's heart, providing specialist mental health support to Punjabi-speaking communities. Born from a social movement initiated by the community for the community, we've dedicated ourselves to breaking down barriers and normalising conversations around mental health in under-represented communities.

As a non-profit community interest company, we believe in the power of connection and understanding. Through our evidence-based Mental Health First Aid Training in Punjabi, Urdu, and English, weekly soup kitchens, and comprehensive emotional support services, we're building bridges where isolation once existed. From influencing policy to participating in clinical research, every action we take is rooted in our unwavering commitment to ensuring that no one in our community faces their struggles alone.

Contact Us
About Us
What We Are Doing

We Are In A Mission To Help The Helpless

Mental Health First Aid Training

We provide culturally sensitive mental health first aid training for the Punjabi community, equipping individuals with essential skills to recognize and respond to mental health challenges within their families and communities.

Soup Kitchen

We operate a community soup kitchen that serves traditional Punjabi meals while creating a safe space for individuals to connect, share their experiences, and access mental health resources in a familiar and welcoming environment.

Community Events

Through regular cultural celebrations, workshops, and gatherings, we strengthen community bonds while raising awareness about mental health, reducing stigma, and creating opportunities for peer support within the Punjabi community.

Our Journey

Our Story

Discover how a community-driven initiative evolved into a comprehensive mental health support system

From Community Movement to Professional Practice

What began as a grassroots social movement in Rochdale has grown into a comprehensive mental health practice serving Punjabi-speaking communities across the region. Our journey reflects the power of community-driven change.

Founded in 2006, Awakening Minds Practice emerged from the recognition that mental health support was desperately needed in under-represented communities, particularly those where language and cultural barriers prevented access to care.

Today, we continue to honor our roots while expanding our reach and impact through evidence-based practices, community partnerships, and ongoing advocacy for mental health equity.

1

Community Initiative

Started as a grassroots movement by the community, for the community

2

Professional Development

Evolved into a registered community interest company with professional standards

3

Expanded Services

Now offering comprehensive mental health support, training, and advocacy

What Drives Us

Our Values

The principles that guide our work and shape our impact on the community

Community

Building strong, supportive networks within our community

Excellence

Maintaining the highest standards in all our services and programs

Compassion

Approaching every individual with empathy, understanding, and care

Innovation

Continuously improving and adapting our approaches to better serve

What We Are Doing

Our Expert Volunteer Always Ready

Nasrine Akhtar

Nasrine Akhtar

Founder

Gulnar Vagherani

Gulnar Vagherani

Board Member

Fehmina Parveen

Fehmina Parveen

HR Manager

Ruman Shakil

Ruman Shakil

Admin

Community Stories

Stories of Hope & Transformation

Hear from our community members, volunteers, and service users about how Awakening Minds has made a difference in their lives and the lives of others in Rochdale.

Awakening Minds helped me when I was at my lowest point. The support I received in Punjabi made all the difference - I finally felt understood. They didn't just help me, they helped my whole family understand mental health better.

Amrit Kaur
Community Member, Rochdale

As a volunteer, I've seen firsthand how this organization transforms lives. The weekly soup kitchen isn't just about food - it's about creating a safe space where people can talk openly about their struggles without fear of judgment.

Sarah Johnson
Volunteer & Mental Health Advocate

The Mental Health First Aid training I received through Awakening Minds gave me the confidence to support my colleagues at work. Now I can recognize when someone is struggling and know how to help them get the support they need.

Rajinder Singh
Local Business Owner

Join Us in Making a Difference

Whether you're seeking support, want to volunteer, or wish to contribute to our mission, we welcome you to be part of our community.