Meet the Team, Masuma Begum, Community Engagement Officer

Describe your role and responsibilities as Community Engagement Officer.

As a Community Engagement Officer for Active Black Country, my role is to work closely with local communities to understand the barriers people face when it comes to being physically active. I engage with residents, community groups and partners to listen to their experiences and identify what support is needed.

How is Active Black Country making a difference in getting people active across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton?

Active Black Country is making a difference by taking a community led approach to physical activity. Rather than a one-size-fits-all model, we work directly with local people to understand their needs and tailor opportunities accordingly. This includes supporting local organisations, and focusing on reducing inequalities so that those who are least active have the greatest support. By building strong partnerships and investing in communities, we are helping to create long term, positive behaviour change across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton.

What do you like most about the Black Country?

What I like most about the Black Country is its strong sense of community and pride. There is a real spirit of people looking out for one another, and a rich cultural heritage that brings communities together. It is inspiring to see how passionate local people are about making a difference in their areas.

In your work, what has been your biggest personal achievement recently?

My biggest recent achievement has been building strong relationships with local community groups and residents. Gaining peoples trust and creating open conversations around physical activity has been really rewarding, as it lays the foundation for meaningful and lasting change.

Describe yourself in three words?

Approachable, enthusiastic, passionate.

Describe what physical activity means to you and how it benefits your physical and mental wellbeing?

Physical activity, to me, is about more than just exercise, it is a way to maintain balance, improve health and support overall wellbeing. It helps me stay physically healthy, boosts my energy levels and improves my mood. Mentally, it provides a chance to clear my mind, reduce stress and feel more positive. It is an important part of maintaining both my physical and mental wellbeing.