About Mosaic
Founded by HRH The Prince of Wales in November 2007, Mosaic is a multiple set of initiatives designed to support young Muslims and their peers growing up in our deprived areas, whilst also breaking down barriers and suspicions within British society.
Mosaic works towards a more integrated and thriving society where all individuals, regardless of background, are supported in realizing their potential
The first element of Mosaic was launched on November 1st 2007 with a personal video message of support from His Royal Highness. Attending and speaking in support of the project was the Rt. Hon. Hazel Blears MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, whilst various influential individuals publicly declared their commitment to an audience of over 200 City-based professionals.
Since then, it has become clear that the Mosaic is not only capable of mobilizing interest in professionals to undertake volunteering and other collaboration on community-based youth projects, but that an increasing number of individuals and organizations are keen to collaborate and expand Mosaic into other important areas which are compatible with the overall objectives.
Mosaic remains primarily concerned with supporting young Muslims and others (between the ages of 12 and 25) who, through no fault of their own, lack access to opportunities in order to maximize their potential to make a positive contribution to society.
The Issues
The issues facing young Muslims are particularly acute in our most deprived areas and are coupled with challenges surrounding their sense of identity, lack of community leadership and sense of connection or not to mainstream British society. Investigation showed that many young Muslims have an inadequate grasp of their own heritage and history, against which to balance other influences in their lives.
Mosaic has therefore identified four over-riding concerns it aims to address:
1. A lack of positive role models and access to opportunities for young Muslims, leading to lower expectations, poor prospects and sense of exclusion;
2. A lack of positive media coverage of mainstream Muslim contributions to society leading to suspicion and misunderstanding;
3. A lack of effective community leadership failing to develop cohesion and links to other communities; and,
4. A lack of understanding by non-Muslims in respect of the role of Muslims in society encouraging barriers between different groups.
Mosaic has now established the initiatives set out below to mutually support each other in addressing the above concerns, as well as supporting the overall youth agenda.
How to get involved
Currently we are working in London, Yorkshire and Humber, North West, East Midlands and West Midlands. As a Mosaic mentor you will have the opportunity to:
- Mentor selected pupils through one-to-ones, group mentoring & e-mentoring in schools and community groups.
- Deliver motivational speeches to pupils and teachers in school assemblies.
- Offer work placements to young Muslims who may not have the social networks to gain such opportunities.
- Invite young people into your organisation on a site visit to gain an insight into the workplace.
- Provide support and guidance to Muslim Community leaders
Contact us
If you have any queries about Mosaic, please email the Mosaic team mosaic@bitc.org.uk or call on 020 7566 8772.