Sonia Alexander- Director
Sonia Alexander
Our Story
Cornerstone was founded in 2007 by Chichi Meniru, an experienced Education Consultant and Youth and Family Engagement specialist, who has successfully improved outcomes for at-risk children and young people for over 20 years. Recognising the systemic issue of disproportionate school exclusions of Black African and Caribbean heritage youth from mainstream education and the resulting limited life opportunities, Chichi established Cornerstone to break this unjust cycle and empower young people to reach their full potential.
Cornerstone began as an alternative education provision, for secondary school pupils who were at risk of exclusion or permanently excluded from mainstream education. The provision provided a motivating pathway back into education that focused on personal development, emotional and social wellbeing, and offered bespoke holistic support packages in partnership with professionals and parents. Through this approach, young people achieved academic and vocational qualifications, enhanced skills, and a sense of achievement.
Building on this success, Chichi and her team continue to work collaboratively to tackle the root causes of youth marginalisation and support at-risk young people and families to achieve positive change in their lives and communities.
Our Services are
Person-Centred: Young people are at the heart of everything we do. We work together with them in a non-hierarchical way to achieve their aspirations. Support is tailored to their needs and unique circumstances.
Trauma-Informed: We understand trauma to include systemic trauma which can affect young people and communities. We acknowledge the structural barriers that different young people face and provide trauma informed support to respond to presenting issues and work contextually.
Holistic: We focus on the needs of the whole family to improve their personal, social, emotional and economic wellbeing.
Bespoke: There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to our services. Our services are innovative and unique because of the high level of personalisation and partnership working offered to tailor each person’s package of support.
Aspirational: Our services are designed to empower young people and families to build their confidence, resilience and equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their chosen career paths.
Meet the team
Chichi Meniru- Founder-Director
Chichi Meniru
Abi Abidoye Partnerships Coordinator
Abi Abidoye
How you can help
Donate
Right now, there are children facing some of life’s biggest challenges. By donating today, you help our to enjoy a brighter future.
Partner with us
Collaboration lies at the heart of what we do. Partner with us to make a transformational impact in the lives of marginalised young people across the United Kingdom.