Sakinat Baiyewu

I proudly assumed the role of Trustee in December, 2025. My professional background is in public health and equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI), and my career has focused on developing and delivering cultural competence training that helps organisations better understand and meet the needs of diverse communities. Much of my work has been shaped by a commitment to tackling health inequalities, particularly where people experience barriers to access, poorer outcomes, or a lack of trust in services.

This is especially important to me in the context of mental health. I have seen, both personally and professionally, how unequal access to support and the stigma that can exist in some communities can prevent people from seeking help early, or from receiving the right support when they do. That reality has strongly influenced my motivation to champion more inclusive, culturally responsive approaches to mental health and wellbeing.

I currently work with the Caribbean and African Health Network (CAHN), where I oversee strategic programmes and initiatives aimed at improving outcomes and reducing inequalities. Earlier in my time at CAHN, I also managed the organisation’s counselling team, which gave me direct insight into the lived experiences of individuals and families navigating mental health challenges, and the importance of services that feel safe, respectful, and accessible.

Alongside my role at CAHN, I am also a trustee of the Nigerian Community Leeds, and I have contributed to a range of community-led interventions designed to address inequalities and strengthen support for underserved groups.

I am genuinely honoured to join the Board at Rochdale and District Mind, and I look forward to using my experience and values to support the organisation’s mission and the communities it serves.

-Sakinat Baiyewu

Posted on: 7th January 2026