Our Journey So Far

Since our establishment in 2013, we have remained steadfast through challenges, united by our mission of mutual upliftment and the greater good. Over the past decade, our social events — from the Iriji Festival to endofyear celebrations and summer barbeques — have strengthened our bonds, celebrated our heritage, and created spaces for friendship, networking, and even business partnerships.

We have also walked together through moments of sorrow. In times of mourning, our community has been a pillar of comfort and support, especially for members who lost loved ones. During the difficult years of the COVID19 pandemic, ICM emerged as a place of refuge and connection for Ndi Igbo in the diaspora, proving once again that our community is home, no matter the distance.

Collaboration & Cultural Advocacy

ICM has continued to champion Igbo history and cultural representation in Greater Manchester.

In January 2020, we collaborated with the University of Manchester’s Department of History on the “Remembering Biafra: Public History for Community Empowerment” event, marking 50 years since the end of the NigeriaBiafra War. This important gathering explored themes such as colonial legacies, ethnic coexistence, humanitarianism, and the wider impact of global politics on African history, bringing together academics, filmmakers, and the public.
(See event link: https://events.manchester.ac.uk/event/event:eaa-k5nqezm6-q225ef)

In January 2026, ICM officers participated in a research initiative with Manchester Museum and joined the launch of the Africa Hub Project—a new gallery that brings African collections out of storage and into an open, reflective space. The project seeks to reconnect historical objects with their communities and broaden public understanding of African heritage.
Press release: www.museum.manchester.ac.uk/magazine/voices-from-the-africa-hub

Celebrating a Decade of Impact

In 2024, we marked ICM’s 10th Anniversary, honouring members who have shown long-standing commitment to the growth of the organisation. Although we celebrated a select few, every member has played an essential role in this journey. No matter how big or small your contribution, you are part of our success story. I encourage every one of us to stay engaged as we shape an ICM that will serve as a lasting legacy for our children in the diaspora.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, we must ensure that ICM remains a community our young people can inherit with pride. For our vision to flourish, we must continue building an organisation that supports their aspirations, nurtures their identity, and strengthens their sense of belonging. Onye ma echi? While no one knows tomorrow, the vision of our founders remains vibrant and relevant. We have built a strong foundation over the last decade, but our work is far from complete. Echi dị ime — the future is pregnant with possibilities, and it is ours to shape.

ICM must continue to evolve — embracing positive change, strengthening inclusion, and expanding our impact within and beyond Greater Manchester. Let us remain resilient, forwardthinking, and united in purpose.

A Call to Unity and Action

Standing on the shoulders of those who came before us, let us remember that our journey has only just begun. Together, we can build an ICM that reflects the very best of who we are — our resilience, culture, pride, and commitment to one another.

Let us step confidently into the next chapter with hope, determination, and unity.

Ka echi mara ICM mma!