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Chai and Chat Community Solihull - Connecting South Asians Over 50

About Chai & Chat

The story, values and community purpose behind the group.

Our Story

Chai and Chat Community Solihull was founded after I recognised a gap while searching for social groups and activities for my parents.

Living in Solihull, a town with a growing and diverse community, I noticed that many existing activities and social opportunities were not always accessible or engaging for older members of the South Asian community. It did not feel right that people regularly had to travel outside the borough to find welcoming and culturally familiar spaces.

Following discussions through local focus groups and feedback from South Asian residents, I decided to take the initiative to create a dedicated community group for individuals aged 50 and over. As a result, Chai and Chat Community Solihull was established in July 2024.

Our community is built around a warm, friendly, and supportive atmosphere, made possible through the dedication of our volunteers. By listening closely to our members, we tailor our activities, games, and learning opportunities to reflect their interests, needs, and expectations.

We are proud to have created a welcoming and relaxed environment where older people can connect, share experiences, build friendships, and grow together  all while enjoying a good cup of chai.

Manisha Sharma

Meet The Team

Manisha Sharma - Founder

Hi, I’m Manisha.
Chai and Chat Community grew from a personal need to find welcoming local spaces where older South Asian adults could connect, feel comfortable, and build meaningful friendships. After seeing how limited these opportunities were for my own parents and others in the community, I felt inspired to create something local, warm, and inclusive.

Since launching in July 2024, it has been wonderful to see new friendships blossom over cups of chai. With the support of Vishal, Anishta, and Jasmin, I am proud to help grow a community where people feel valued, supported, and connected.

Vishal and I completed the trek to Everest Base Camp in Nepal, raising funds for both Solihull Samaritans and Chai and Chat Community in November 2025.

Vishal Sharma – Team Leader

Hi, I’m Vish.
Having lived in the local area for over 40 years, I became increasingly aware of the need for welcoming community spaces where people, especially older adults, could come together, connect, and feel a genuine sense of belonging. That understanding inspired me to help establish Chai and Chat Community.
 
Being part of this journey has been incredibly rewarding. It is a privilege to see friendships forming, conversations flowing, and people finding comfort and connection through something as simple and meaningful as sharing a cup of chai. I believe strong communities are built on warmth, inclusion, and kindness, and I am proud to support an initiative that brings those values to life in Solihull.

Jasmin Desai – Team Leader

Hi, I’m Jasmin.
I’m an early years teacher with over 15 years of experience and a background in psychology. Supporting others has always been at the heart of what I do, which is why being part of Chai and Chat Community means so much to me.
 
As Treasurer and a member of the founding team, I help ensure our activities are financially supported and our events are well planned. I am proud to be part of an initiative that brings people together through friendship, connection, and shared experiences. It is always rewarding to see the positive impact the group has on our members.
 

Anishta Gill - Team Leader

Hi, I’m Anishta. 
My personal and professional journey has led me towards wellbeing, mindfulness, and community support. I work as a Mindfulness Coach and Reiki Practitioner alongside roles in the NHS, and I care deeply about helping people feel supported and connected.
 
As part of the founding team at Chai and Chat Community, I serve as Secretary and help with governance, administration, record keeping, and event planning. Seeing friendships grow and people feel uplifted through shared conversation and chai is truly heartwarming.

Our Values

Caring

Treat everyone with compassion, dignity and respect.

Heritage

Embrace, share and celebrate our South Asian Roots.

Acceptance

A safe, non-judgemental space that respects differing beliefs.

Inclusive

Actively creating a sense of belonging, safety and empowerment for all.

Who It's For

  • South Asians aged 50+
  • People feeling isolated or new to the area
  • Men and Women welcome
  • Carers and family members welcome