Changing Suits is a vibrant community-based organisation dedicated to bridging cultural divides and enhancing engagement within the South Asian community with essential support services. Founded by sisters Bal and Taj, Changing Suits embodies a vision to foster open dialogue, challenge longstanding taboos, and empower individuals to confront and overcome cultural barriers.
The Impact of Culture on the British South Asian Community
Watch our insightful video where we explore the profound impact of cultural norms on the lives of British South Asians. We delve into the ways in which traditional values shape personal experiences, often imposing barriers that prevent open discussions on critical issues like mental health, gender inequality, and societal expectations. Through personal anecdotes, we shed light on the urgent need for cultural transformation within our community.
About the Co-founders
Bal and Taj are proud second-generation British South Asians from a traditional Punjabi background, residing in East London. Growing up in an extended family within a close-knit community, they were acutely aware of the cultural pressures that prioritise family reputation and social status over individual wellbeing. This environment often discouraged open discussions about sensitive issues such as mental health, gender inequality, and social challenges, perpetuating a cycle of silence and isolation.
From their personal experiences and those echoed by friends and family, Bal and Taj recognised the urgent need for a platform where these critical issues could be openly addressed. This realisation led to the birth of Changing Suits.
Our Journey
Changing Suits started with the Changing Suits Podcast “The Cultural Barrier”, a dynamic platform where Bal and Taj shared their personal stories and engaged with experts to shed light on the underlying causes and impacts of cultural issues. The podcast quickly became a catalyst for broader community engagement, prompting service providers to seek insights into the cultural nuances that had historically hindered access to necessary services.
Today, Changing Suits has evolved beyond the podcast to include peer-to-peer support groups, mentoring programs, and social events that cultivate strength, amplify diverse voices, and promote a more inclusive and empathetic support system. Our commitment remains steadfast: to heal, unite, and transform both individuals and the broader support sector, ensuring every story is not only heard but valued as a powerful agent of change.
Key Highlights
Expanding Our Team:
As Changing Suits grew, we expanded our team to include a diverse group of passionate professionals dedicated to broadening our impact across multiple community sectors. This expansion has been crucial in enabling us to address a wider range of cultural and social issues more effectively.
Opening The Hutti: In a significant development, we opened our offices and workshop space known as The Hutti in Swindon. This space serves as a vibrant hub for community activities, workshops, and a meeting place for those who seek support and connection.
Recognition by the Swindon Mayor: Changing Suits was honoured as the Swindon Mayor’s Charity for the year 2024/2025, a recognition that underscores the effectiveness and importance of our work in the community.
Mention in Parliament: Our efforts were acknowledged on a national level when MP Will Stone mentioned Changing Suits in Parliament, highlighting our contributions and bringing our mission to a broader audience.
Award-Winning Organisation: Our dedication and impact were further validated as we became an award-winning organisation, receiving accolades for our innovative approach to community support and cultural engagement.
Extending Our Reach: Our work has now expanded into Wiltshire and West London, bringing our unique approach to more communities and amplifying our impact in addressing cultural challenges and supporting personal transformations. Additionally, Changing Suits is collaborating with and supporting other diverse group organisations to increase their impact through grant funding and resources.
Our commitment remains unwavering: to heal, unite, and transform both individuals and the broader support sector. We strive to ensure that every story is not only heard but also valued as a potent agent of change.