I am so pleased to be part of the first batch of community organisers on the programme. I believe in the importance of working with people who have little or no voice. I want to make a tangible difference to my own community of Southwark and to find ways of making local democracy live again.

I discovered community organising about two years ago when I stumbled into an MA course in Community Organising at Queen Mary University of London in Mile End, run with London Citizens. It was a big change of direction for me but has proved both very stimulating and very productive. Joining my four colleagues in Southwark is giving me an opportunity to develop the practical skills and knowledge of the community that will help me make a long term impact round here.

Moving last year from national policy work for one of Locality's predecessors, bassac to academic study was challenging. Working this year with the people of Southwark on the projects and ideas they want to come to life is thrilling. I know this will be a preparation for big things in the future.

I blog at www.southwarkorganising.wordpress.com

I would love to hear from anyone with an interest in community organising or who wants to get involved in our work in Southwark.

M: 07891 066 243      Tw: @kmarkparker    E: mark.parker@corganisers.org.uk