Welcome to Our New Chair: Rooqia Malik | Legacy West Midlands

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We are thrilled to announce that Rooqia Malik has been appointed as the new Chair of Legacy WM. Her appointment marks an exciting next chapter for our organisation as we continue to grow, innovate, and make a meaningful impact in our community.

A Message from Aftab Rahman, CEO of Legacy WM

“I am delighted to welcome Rooqia as our new Chair as she has exceptional leadership skills and will build on the great work that Jesse Gerald has done over the last three years. I am looking forward to working with Rooqia as we move forward to the next phase of our exciting development.”

Exceptional Experience and Leadership

Rooqia brings over 20 years of experience across higher education, government, and strategic partnership roles. Currently, she serves as Head of Strategic Projects and Partnerships at the University of Birmingham, where she works closely with academics, researchers, industry, and professional services to develop regionally led strategic opportunities that foster innovation, business support, and product development.

Throughout her career, Rooqia has led numerous initiatives in policy development, project management, and transformational change, making a tangible impact across education and public sectors.

A Commitment to Advocacy and Inclusion

Beyond her professional achievements, Rooqia is a first-generation British Bangladeshi who has maximised every opportunity to overcome barriers. She is deeply committed to supporting and advocating for others, a value that resonates strongly with our mission at Legacy WM.

Her dedication to inclusion, opportunity, and empowerment will guide our organisation as we continue to grow, innovate, and serve our community.

Looking Forward

We are excited to work alongside Rooqia as we build on the incredible work of our previous Chair, Jesse Gerald, and continue our journey into a new phase of development. Her appointment is a testament to our commitment to strong leadership, strategic growth, and lasting impact.

Learn more about Rooqia here

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Legacy West Midlands

Legacy WM Annual Report

Testimonials

During my time as a community champion I have participated in the Mason mile as well as holiday play schemes. I also had the honour of partaking in the Freedom50 exhibition, which opened my eyes to the true beauty of my culture. It has not only boosted my confidence, but it has also allowed me to feel more connected to the community around me.

Zara, Community Champion
Freedom50 charity bike ride in Bangladesh was one the greatest moments of my life, which I will cherish for as long I live.

Nasir, Freedom50 Cyclist
Volunteering for Legacy WM has been an incredible experience. The respectful and friendly environment of Legacy WM allows you to flourish in what you do best. Working in marketing has not only made me more confident in my skills but awakened a new passion for it as I can use it to help people and even give back to my community. Legacy WM ensures that I and everyone else like me, are proud of our cultures and continue to be.

Ikra, Community Champion
I find it really good and it’s boosted my confidence. Meeting new people is really nervous for me. The group has boosted my confidence in playing with others I’ve never met before in life…they’re really kind, they’re really funny and they inspire me to keep going… My game has progressed. I’m good at serving, hitting, smashing and everything. So I’m very thankful for the coaches helping inspire me to play… It helps me as well with my mental wellbeing as well.

Hamzah, Badminton Attendee
Clover HR are genuinely pleased to be able to support the work done by Legacy WM. We have been involved with Aftab and his Team for several years and know their tireless efforts directly and positively affect peoples lives everyday.

Michael Doolin, Chief Executive Officer for Clover HR
I had the best time on this trip! I had the amazing opportunity to learn and grow in many different ways, as well as meet some wonderful people along the way for the first time. Thank you.

Hana , Freedom50 Cyclist
I've been volunteering at Legacy WM and just wanted to say a huge thank you to the team here. They've all been amazing and supported my journey throughout. I've really learned a lot and there's a lot I will take with me in terms of for my future and my personal development.

Isha, Community Champion
Your coaches are doing a tremendous job with our children. Not only are you training them to become great badminton players, but you are also teaching them great discipline and behaviour, making them understand the importance of healthy competition as well as developing a strong passion for the game.

Kids Badminton Attendee, Parent
My experience volunteering has been nothing short of inspiring - local artists, and community leaders, has encouraged me to dig deeper into the socio-political histories of Birmingham. Working alongside staff has been a grounding experience for me. I feel more capable to engage with the world critically, consciously, and optimistically.

Canaan, Arts Intern
Riding with the Freedom50 group is amazing, its great company, mostly enjoyable (when it’s not too hilly, but hey, that’s where the best memories are made and where you get the best laughs!). It’s a brilliant way to stay fit, and coupled with charity rides, a great way to raise money for a needy cause.

Kois, Freedom50 Cyclist
Walks around the park are relaxing. I like taking in nature and experiencing nature, whilst having great conversations with local residents. These walks have improved my life and have enabled me to continue with my passion for movement. I am now walking most mornings as a result of my role as a walk leader for Legacy WM.

Madge, Walk Leader - Every Step Matters
I’m delighted to be joining Legacy WM board of trustees both to support the development of a brilliant grass roots organisation in our city, and to connect The Rep with more local communities and learn how we can better serve them through our work as a major city institution.

Rachael Thomas, Executive Director at Birmingham Rep and Trustee Member

Diversity and Legacy

Legacy WM is committed to creating a diverse environment reflecting the communities in which we work. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer where all job applicants will be considered for employment irrespective of our differences.

The values and beliefs at Legacy WM enable our employees to bring their full self to work, develop their potential and engage in a world full of inclusion.