Meet a Villager: Reniece

Get to know your fellow local parents who are regulars at The Village and learn more about how our services have helped them.

This time meet Reniece, who loves the music and connection.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m Reniece. I’m married with a 23 month old son called Orion and we are based in Catford, South London. I’ve lived in this area for almost 20 years. I am a professional singer and have been so for the last seven years. Before this, I had a career in childcare.

Before you joined us at The Village, how was your experience of early parenthood? How were you feeling?

I had my son just before the first lockdown. The first few months of motherhood for me was quite “cocooned” and consisted of just the three of us, which felt quite isolating, even though it was really nice having my husband home (due to being furloughed). So in the summer, I connected with some other new mums, which was great.

Then the winter 2020 lockdown came and due to winter, lockdown and some personal issues I found myself feeling quite severely depressed. So when that lockdown was lifted, I made much more of an effort to get out there a bit more with my son and go to baby classes and connect with other mothers. I really feel strongly about the sisterhood that comes with motherhood and I found it to be such a wonderful, uplifting and supportive thing.

How did you find out about The Village?

I found the village on Facebook I think. The name was the first thing that appealed to me: it takes a village to raise a child – and nurture a mother. Also it being so local was a plus too.

What was the first class/group/service you came for? How was that experience?

I first went to the Vocalise choir trial and then went to the Family Music class, both on the same day. It was nice to see so many other mothers in the area. Made me realise that I wasn’t the only one wanting to get out and about haha! I spoke to Yasmin after the choir trial and she was really friendly and helpful. Then my son played with a few of the other children that were there and it felt so nice to see him be a bit social. Family music was brilliant. Kemi was leading the session and my son and I really enjoyed the songs and music that she played.

What difference has The Village made to your feelings and experience of being a parent?

It’s really nice to have something so local and meet other new mums in the area. The range of services that are offered let me know that there is accessible support out there if i ever need (breastfeeding, physio, yoga etc).

Have you made friends at The Village?

All the mothers are really friendly at the classes.

What would you say to local parents who are thinking of coming to The Village?

It’s definitely worth trying out and getting a feel for the space and the mothers because it is likely that you will find something that will tickle your fancy and make you feel supported.

Any other thoughts to share?

Thank yooou!!!