Celebrating South Asian Heritage Month

At Central Co-op, we believe in celebrating the rich mix of cultures that make up our communities and colleagues. That’s why we were proud to mark the beginning of South Asian Heritage Month (18th July – 17th August) with a vibrant event at our Support Centre in Lichfield, led by our colleague inclusion network, We Are One.

South Asian Heritage Month is all about recognising the amazing contributions South Asian communities have made to life in the UK – from food, fashion and film, to business, public service and science. It’s also about sharing stories, building understanding and celebrating diversity. We couldn’t think of a better way to do just that than by coming together in colour, culture and community spirit.

Our celebrations began with a lively walk along Queen Street in Lichfield, led by a horse from Victorian Carriages dressed in a South Asian-inspired feathered headdress and accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of Beat Asylum, a traditional South Asian drumming group. Colleagues from the We Are One network followed behind, creating a joyful and eye-catching procession.

The horse may have looked familiar – it’s often used in our Central Co-op funeral services. Here, it symbolised how we honour and respect different cultural traditions in every part of our Society, including how we support people in times of loss.

Back at the Support Centre, colleagues took part in interactive experiences that celebrated South Asian traditions. From learning a few beats in a drumming session, to getting henna designs, relaxing with an Indian head massage, or joining in a calming yoga practice, there was something for everyone to enjoy and discover.

Celebrations also took place in our communities, with stores in Tividale, Oldbury; Sheldon, Birmingham and Shirley, Solihull hosting in-store taster events to mark the start of South Asian Heritage Month. These events gave Members and customers the opportunity to sample South Asian flavours and connect with colleagues about the significance of the month, helping to bring cultural appreciation to the heart of the high street.

It was a celebration rooted in community, inclusion and connection – values that are at the heart of who we are.

This event was brought to life by We Are One, one of five colleague-led inclusion networks we’ve introduced at Central Co-op. These networks launched just over a year ago with the goal of giving colleagues a stronger voice and creating space for lived experiences to shape how we work and grow as a Society.

In just 12 months, networks like We Are One (ethnic and cultural diversity), Pride (LGBTQAI+ inclusion), Ability (disability inclusion), EmpowHER (gender equality) and NextGen (under 25s) have become a vital part of our culture. Their work revolves around hosting events, guiding conversations, advising on key policies, and helping make Central Co-op a more welcoming and inclusive place for everyone.

As South Asian Heritage Month continues, we’ll be sharing more stories and reflections from colleagues and Members across the Society. It’s just one of the many ways we’re living our purpose: creating a sustainable Society for all.

Stay tuned for more, and thank you for celebrating with us.