The Patrick Iyere Foundation (PATIF) is a charitable organisation committed to empowering individuals and strengthening communities.
PATIF was established to address two critical needs within the community. The first is to help young people realise their full potential by providing access to resources, guidance, and training that foster self-development, confidence, and self-awareness. Through mentoring, educational support, and wellbeing initiatives, the foundation aims to equip young people with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges and build positive futures.
The second focus of PATIF is improving health awareness within the Black community, particularly around chronic health conditions that are often under-discussed or diagnosed too late. A key priority is raising awareness about cardiovascular health and encouraging preventative care through education, outreach, and accessible health screening initiatives. By combining health education with youth empowerment, PATIF seeks to build stronger, healthier communities where individuals are informed, supported, and able to thrive.
Our Vision
Our vision is to create a society in which every individual has access to the fundamental necessities of life: health, education and training, and safe housing — and in which young people can build confidence, identity, and belonging without having to compromise who they are. We envision communities where people are empowered with knowledge, resources, and opportunities that enable them to live healthier lives, develop their potential, and contribute positively to society.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create opportunities that enable individuals and communities to thrive. We do this by providing access to information, research, training, and support networks, while connecting people with the resources and services they need to succeed. Through collaboration, education, and community engagement, PATIF aims to remove barriers and promote wellbeing, empowerment, cultural identity, and long-term positive outcomes.
Why This Matters
For young people aged 12–21 in Wigan — particularly Black youth, minoritised African and Caribbean communities, and those from migrant backgrounds — lower diversity than cities like London can mean isolation, pressure to change their name or behaviour to fit in, and difficulty balancing their cultural background with their local environment. These challenges can affect self-esteem, communication, and overall wellbeing, and targeted support for young people navigating them is limited.
PATIF exists to close that gap — helping young people build confidence, develop self-awareness, and feel a genuine sense of belonging, without compromising who they are.
Our Core Objectives
Health Awareness
Raising awareness of chronic health conditions — particularly cardiovascular health — that disproportionately affect the Black community.
Health Screening
Making basic health screenings more accessible within communities, so potential issues are caught early rather than diagnosed too late.
Youth Education & Development
Facilitating access to educational opportunities, training resources, and mentorship so young people can build confidence and pursue meaningful pathways.
Identity & Belonging
Cultural games, language classes, and shared celebrations that help young people from Black and migrant backgrounds stay connected to who they are.
Emotional & Mental Wellbeing
Supportive programmes, workshops, and safe spaces that help young people build emotional resilience and the confidence to overcome life's challenges.
In Memory of Patrick
PATIF was founded in memory of Patrick Oriabure Iyere. Read the story of his life and the legacy behind the foundation.
In Memory of PatrickRead his storyOur Trustees
Meet the trustees who govern PATIF and are responsible for its programmes and finances.
Our TrusteesMeet the board