About us

PRETTY HEARTS

At Pretty Hearts CIC, we believe every young person deserves a safe, creative space to thrive — to heal, express, and dream boldly. Based in the heart of Royal Greenwich, we are a growing grassroots organisation supporting young Black lives through culturally relevant skills training, mentoring, and community celebration.

Born out of a passion for purpose and inclusion, Pretty Hearts CIC was founded to meet the overlooked emotional, social, and creative needs of young people — especially those from marginalised African and Caribbean backgrounds. From free taster sessions to heritage-inspired workshops, we create brave spaces where stories matter, creativity flourishes, and identity is embraced.

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Number of young people that have been impacted so far

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Professional tutors and mentors helping us make an impact

PRETTY HEARTS CIC

How it All Started

* My Children had no where to go during the summer holidays.

* ⁠Their friends were always visiting at home.

* ⁠They wanted to go out, but I didn’t want them to go out for fear of uncertainty coming from the News. This need gave birth to what we have now.

The Pretty Hearts Movement

What began as a vision is now a movement. We have engaged dozens of young people and local women through storytelling events, braiding sessions, and creative workshops that teach both skill and self-worth. Our approach blends cultural pride, practical training, and community leadership — because we believe our heritage holds the power to heal and build a better future.

We are excited about our next chapter. With the launch of our new website and professional platform, we are actively seeking funding partners, local collaborators, and volunteers who share our heart for impact. Whether you’re a parent, policymaker, or potential partner — we invite you to walk this journey with us.

THE PROBLEM

* Isolation * ⁠Lack of Self Confidence * ⁠Lack of access to opportunities (in December 2024, 13.4% of young people in London were NEET )

OUR SOLUTION

We offer a safe space for young people to come learn, engage and connect with other young people, learningvaluable skills along the way and feeling a sense ofbelonging

KEY FEATURES

We offer creative workshops that teach young people real
skills like hair braiding, cooking, and crafting
Our sessions run every school holiday, providing a safe,
engaging space where youth feel seen, heard, and supported.
We run blended skills sessions to reduce isolation and
improve mental well-being.
Our programmes are culturally rooted, youth-led, and hyper-local, delivered by trusted mentors from our community

Beautiful Testimonials From Impacted Teenagers

I used to be sad every holiday because I had to stay indoors. My mum was always scared to let me go out or visit friends because of all the knife crime in Woolwich. But since coming to this workshop, I feel different. I’m excited for the holidays now because I know I’ll be doing something fun and productive—and my mum doesn’t worry as much anymore.

Peculiar

Royal Greenwhich Borough

Before joining Pretty Hearts, weekends were always boring for me. I would sit at home on my phone with nothing meaningful to do. But since I started coming here, I’ve discovered new skills and even made friends who encourage me. Now my parents are happy because they see me doing something positive with my time.

Sarah William

Royal Greenwich Borough

I was always very shy and hardly spoke up in school. Whenever there were group activities, I would hide at the back. But at Pretty Hearts, I’ve been given the chance to lead small projects, and now I’m more confident. Even my teachers have noticed the change, and I feel proud of myself.

Mercy Ekan

Royal Greenwich Borough