My Word of the Year is ‘Home’

I went to watch Mufasa with my son a couple of weeks ago, and just as the movie was about to start, the word home came to me. I’ll be honest, I have no idea why that would be my word and not something like millionaire or superstar, LOL. I think it’s safe to say New Year’s resolutions are a little redundant or have been rebranded with what your focus of the year is, simplified by a ‘word’ of the year… well, at least that is my approach/perspective.

Since this word came to me, and as I slowly lean into what that even means for this year, I’m finding it is also a summary of 2024 and a core value I have always carried with me. In a lot of ways, I have taken this for granted, as I always thought home was a physical, tangible thing (a roof over your head), and I’ve always had the privilege of having a big family. But if I don’t have that tangible thing or own a home, then what is home?

Home is you. Home is your support system, your community, and what you are able to pour into to make others feel at home. The tangible thing can be a manifestation of all of this, but it’s also the very basic thing I believe we should all have. Sadly, it’s becoming more of a luxury as so many people are homeless.

In 2024, my home meant I got to build on strength and faith through fitness and prayer. My home meant I got to build on something I love, hosting/cooking. Through, hosting my first supper club/private cheffing. My home also meant I got to spend so much time with my immediate family while building a home for myself through moving back in with family. All of these things contributed so much to my overall well-being, and always feeling a part of something held and supported.

The most difficult part of 2024 was grief. Grieving what was once familiar friendships and home, finding my feet with my career, and grieving opportunities I didn’t get to be a part of. The worst of all was losing my cousin Greg to suicide. Nothing can prepare you for losing a loved one, especially in such circumstances. Upon reflecting on my cousin’s life, I now know how much mental health/illness can make you feel displaced, lonely, and unsupported or rather, how hard it is to navigate getting the right support.

It also emphasised how important it is to stand in support of people and causes, to always check in with loved ones and your community, and, most importantly, to keep talking about the issues that impact us every day: homelessness, mental health, and the betterment of our overall well-being.

Homelessness is something that, dare I say it, shouldn’t exist. We all deserve to have shelter, but most importantly, community and support. HARP Southend provides vital support to those without a home, offering services that go beyond just a bed for the night. They provide access to mental health resources, employment support, and pathways to permanent housing. They’re making a real difference in tackling homelessness and rebuilding lives. I truly hope to make a difference with donations made, and even just by being a voice to help close the gap of homelessness.

So this year, I stand in support of HARP Homelessness as I run the Hackney Half Marathon on my birthday because MORE LIFE.

I would also like to honor this run in tribute to Gregory. Rest well. Lots of love x