Launching Sedulous CIC: A Celebration of Purpose and Impact

Starting a business is a journey—one of discovery, understanding, and exploring the potential ahead. Our launch event was more than just a milestone; it was a celebration of our new beginning, ensuring that the community and stakeholders remained engaged every step of the way. With music, activities, and our key presentation, we asked: Who are we?

Who We Are

Sedulous CIC is a female, disability, and neurodiverse-led social enterprise dedicated to breaking down social, economic, and cultural barriers through research and evaluation. We believe that lived experience is an essential piece of the puzzle—often overlooked in traditional academic research but critical for real impact.

The Power of Lived Experience

What do we mean by social, economic, and cultural barriers? Through our work, we have seen firsthand the importance of integrating lived experience into research. It’s a missing link that many academics don’t recognize as an asset. Real people, real stories, and real struggles bring nuance, empowerment, and authenticity to research. Understanding someone’s journey through their own words creates powerful insights that no statistic alone can capture.

Inclusivity as a Foundation

For us, inclusivity isn’t just a principle—it’s the foundation of everything we do. We ensure that every perspective has a seat at the table. As a disabled, neurodiverse, and female-led organization, we recognize that challenges and perceptions may arise. However, we firmly believe that if more organizations embraced inclusivity, made necessary adjustments, and provided opportunities, many more people could fulfill their full potential.

My own journey is a testament to this. Six years ago, I started as a trainee researcher at TSIP, then moved on to become a project manager at Centric, and today, I am a Projects & Operations Director at Sedulous. If you had asked me six years ago whether this was possible, I would have never imagined it. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have received and the knowledge I have gained along the way—each experience shaping me into who I am today.

Empowering Communities

One of the most rewarding aspects of our work is witnessing the empowerment of communities. There is something truly special about being part of a movement that encourages people to find their voice, advocate for their needs, and take action. Our team is made up of empowered individuals who have grown tremendously over the years, becoming leaders in their own right.

Take Elaine Brown, for example. She is the wisdom of our team, constantly advocating for community needs and inspiring others to take action. When people feel heard and supported, they often take the initiative to set up their own projects or join a larger movement, creating lasting impact.

A Vision for the Future

Our vision is rooted in sustainability—building solutions that last for future generations. We know that true impact happens when we unite. We need to create a society built with the community, not just for it. Collaboration is key; working in silos limits potential, but bringing together community members, local organisations, healthcare providers, and councils enables us to make a far greater impact than we ever could alone.

The Journey Ahead

Our launch event was not just a celebration of what we have accomplished but a declaration of our commitment to social justice and meaningful change. As individuals with lived experience, we see and hear the community. This unique perspective drives us forward, ensuring that Sedulous CIC remains a force for empowerment, collaboration, and transformation.

Together, we are building something bigger—something that lasts. And this is just the beginning.

Raquel Caires Januario