A LESSON in democracy will help Teesside’s African women find their voice, according to organisers of a new initiative.

On Tuesday, a Parliamentary outreach worker gave a presentation at an event organised by Women Today, a project that aims to empower black African women across the North-East.

Lynn Hobson was invited to speak by WT chair Locardia Chidanyika, who established the organisation in a bid to ensure African women living in the region have a voice and understand the culture they have settled in.

Lorraine Fore, who moved to England from Zimbabwe, said the initiative was providing a valuable service for women like her.

She added: “It is brilliant seeing women come together and learn about things we are not aware of – last time, we learned about cervical cancer and this time, about democracy.

“We also come together in friendship and learn from each other’s experiences as we are all from different backgrounds.

“We’re far from home and some don’t have families so it is especially important for us to come together for our mental health, especially at this time of year.”

Agatha, from Malawi, was hoping the event would teach her how to help other women struggling with the UK’s immigration system.

Speaking at the event - which took place at the Trinity Centre in North Ormesby - she said: “I’ve been there so I know how draining the system can be and I want to know more about how to help and empower other women.”

Ms Hobson said: “I work with people who do not know about Parliament and don’t have the confidence or knowledge of where to start in going about changing things they know are wrong.

“Our democracy is only as strong as the people who get involved.”