Chat Over Chai is a warm, welcoming, and respectful community group committed to reducing social isolation, boosting confidence, and supporting people in staying safe, healthy, and connected. We aim to foster personal growth and community cohesion by celebrating and raising awareness of diverse cultures.
Our Aims
provide a safe, welcoming, community friendship group for Portsmouth residents, aged 18 or over especially for those who may be vulnerable to social isolation through loneliness, anxiety, marginalisation, or discrimination.
promote a healthy lifestyle to improve our quality of life through information and practical activity sessions on a range of healthcare topics, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
facilitate learning opportunities in a wide range of contexts to broaden and deepen our knowledge and understanding of the world around us by inviting speakers on a variety of topics on and arranging trips to places of interest.
network locally and beyond to increase our knowledge bank of resources to inform and signpost members to services and events which may be of interest or use to them.
work with various organisations to promote services available and to make them equally accessible for minority ethnic groups.
organise and participate in intercultural, informative networking and social events, conferences and projects which will benefit and inform our members, promoting community cohesion and understanding.
model a community of friendship built on a foundation of acceptance, respect and kindness.
Meet the Committee Members
Lucky Haque – Chair
“I am a Mum of 4 wonderful children. If I was to give myself a title it would be the domestic engineer of the Choudhury household. I moved to Portsmouth from London at the age of 7 with my family. My parents started their business on Albert Road. I enjoy gardening, even more since lockdown. Going to the gym, riding my bike, reading and listening to music.
I love being part of Chat Over Chai”
Mala Patel – Secretary
I was born and raised in Mombasa, Kenya, and moved to the UK with my family when I was 17 for a better life and education. After living in Hounslow for a while, I moved to Portsmouth in 1988 after getting married. I love being involved in my Asian Society, especially planning events and helping others in the community. I joined Chat over Chai in 2018 because I really enjoy the diversity and the welcoming, friendly vibe of the group. My motto is, “In others’ happiness lies my own,” so I’m always happy to lend a hand and support anyone who’s part of Chat over Chai!
Steve Macer – Treasurer
I was born in St Marys Hospital and consider myself to be Pompey through and through. My son was born in the same hospital as me and I am proud of that. I celebrate Portsmouth’s multicultural dynamic. I have always been someone who accepts and supports all aspects of human diversity. I became aware of Chat over Chai a few years ago and started to attend the Thursday meet ups. I was charmed by the kind and welcoming nature of the group. Following a reorganisation of the committee I was honoured to be asked to become Treasurer.
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