Ambassador Mike Doyle Visits Gambian Islamic Community Centre in Smethwick, Receiving a Warm Welcome from Mohammed

Monday 1st December 2025

As part of Trade Centre UK’s growing community engagement programme, Brand Ambassador Mike Doyle recently visited the Gambian Islamic Community Centre in Smethwick, Sandwell, where he was welcomed by community leader Mohammed. The visit highlighted not only the strength of the relationship between Trade Centre UK and local community groups, but also the positive impact of continued investment in grassroots initiatives.

A Charity with Deep Roots and an Open Door

Based in the heart of Smethwick, the Gambian Islamic Community Centre is an established charity with more than a decade of service behind it. Founded by migrants from Spain, Gambia, and many other parts of the world, the centre has grown into a vibrant and inclusive hub that welcomes everyone, regardless of background.

At the core of the organisation lies a commitment to supporting young people. Each Friday, the centre runs a youth club that usually meets in Victoria Park for football and outdoor activities. However, as Mohammed explained to our Ambassador Mike, the change of seasons has made this increasingly difficult. Darker evenings during the winter months have limited safe outdoor play, preventing children from enjoying the activities that form such an important part of their weekly routine.

Trade Centre UK’s Support Making a Real Difference

That challenge has now been addressed thanks to Trade Centre UK’s contribution, delivered through its expanding community engagement programme. The donation has enabled the community centre to hire a secure, well-lit outdoor facility where children can continue to play safely even after nightfall.

For the last two and a half months, running the youth sessions in the dark had simply not been possible. With the new support from Trade Centre UK, the centre has been able to restart these vital activities, ensuring young people have a safe, structured, and enjoyable space each week.

Mohammed expressed heartfelt gratitude for the assistance, noting just how “massive” a difference it has made. What was once a weekly struggle has now transformed into an opportunity for the youth club to grow stronger than ever.

Strengthening Partnerships Across the Community

Ambassador Mike Doyle’s visit underscored Trade Centre UK’s commitment to building long-term, meaningful relationships within local communities. The partnership with the Gambian Islamic Community Centre in Smethwick is one of many examples of how the company’s engagement programme is going from strength to strength—empowering organisations that make a real difference in people’s lives.

As Trade Centre UK continues to support initiatives focused on inclusion, youth development, and cultural connection, the company remains dedicated to uplifting communities across the UK through practical, positive action.