Influencing Food Businesses – Investors, Retailers, Caterers and Manufacturers

Kwajo Tweneboa, a young resident of a council estate in South London, became an unexpected champion for housing rights after experiencing firsthand the appalling living conditions in social housing. The state of disrepair, neglect, and health hazards in his own home, and those of his neighbours, spurred him into action.

Identifying the Problem: Kwajo identified severe issues with his housing: mould, broken heating systems, leaks, and general disrepair that posed serious health risks. He realised these problems were widespread across many council estates.

Raising Awareness: Using social media, Kwajo began documenting the conditions in his and other residents' homes. His posts included photos and videos that vividly highlighted the neglect. This visual evidence was powerful in capturing public attention.

Engaging the Media: Kwajo reached out to local and national media, sharing his story and the broader issues facing social housing residents. His compelling narrative and visual documentation caught the attention of journalists, leading to widespread media coverage.

Direct Action and Advocacy: Kwajo didn’t stop at raising awareness. He directly contacted housing authorities, demanding urgent repairs and better living conditions. He also connected with other residents, organising collective complaints and ensuring their voices were heard.

Building Alliances: Kwajo built alliances with housing rights organisations and legal advisors to strengthen his campaign. This support provided him with additional resources and legitimacy.

Public Pressure: The combination of social media exposure and media coverage created significant public pressure on housing authorities. The vivid documentation of neglect could not be ignored, leading to increased scrutiny and accountability.

Institutional Response: As a result of Kwajo’s relentless campaigning, housing authorities began addressing the issues more promptly. Repairs were initiated, and there was a renewed focus on improving living conditions.

Empowering Others: Kwajo’s campaign empowered other residents to speak out and demand better conditions. His success demonstrated that individuals could make a difference, inspiring others to take action in their communities.