↑ masira hans
@theleapbd
tell us a little bit about yourself!
I am Masira Hans—Programme Director at Bradford District and Craven Mind, counsellor, Chair of the Bradford Women’s Health Network, and Deputy Chair of the Together for Health Partnership.
My passion? Breaking barriers, driving change, and making services truly inclusive for people from all backgrounds.
From launching the first menopause cafés for women of colour to supporting systemic change in mental health, I am committed to creating spaces where people are heard, valued, and empowered. Being part of the Pioneer Awards Panel at The Leap was an incredible opportunity to champion bold, creative ideas that uplift communities.
what qualities do you most admire in other women?
I admire women who lead with empathy, compassion, and strength, because these qualities create real, lasting change. Women who are unapologetically themselves and use their voices for good inspire others to step into their own power. It’s this fearless authenticity and willingness to uplift others that drives progress and creates more inclusive, supportive spaces for everyone. I strive to embody that resilience, knowing that when women lift each other up, we all rise.
what advice would you give to women who are passionate about mental health and the arts but aren’t sure how to begin advocating for change in their communities?
Find your tribe, seek good mentors, and say yes to opportunities! If you're passionate about mental health and the arts but unsure where to start, begin by connecting with like-minded people and immersing yourself in spaces where change is happening.
Education is power, so learn about the issues affecting your community and use that knowledge to spark conversations.
Volunteer for everything—experience is the best teacher, and every opportunity will help you grow.
Be eager to learn, stay curious, and don’t be afraid of failing—failure is just part of the journey. Change starts with small actions, whether it’s hosting a creative wellbeing workshop, sharing personal insights, or supporting grassroots initiatives.
Most importantly, trust your voice—your perspective is valuable, and advocacy happens when passion meets persistence. Take that first step, and keep going!
you have recently been an assessor for the leap, looking at a wide variety of potential projects for support and funding. how did your background in mental health shape your assessment of projects that included themes like women’s well-being?
My background in mental health really shaped how I assessed projects, especially when it came to creative communication. I know from experience that how we communicate about mental health can make all the difference—whether it breaks down barriers or reinforces them. I was drawn to projects that went beyond traditional methods, using storytelling, art, and digital platforms to engage people in ways that feel human, relatable, and accessible. Mental health conversations should be inclusive and engaging, not clinical or intimidating, so I was looking for ideas that made space for real, meaningful dialogue.
I was especially interested in projects that put lived experience at the heart of their communication. The best ideas weren’t just about getting a message across—they were about building trust, sparking connection, and making people feel heard. Whether through visual storytelling, spoken word, or creative workshops, I valued projects that spoke to people in a way that actually resonated with their experiences. It’s not just about what you say—it’s how you say it and who you say it with that really matters.
I also thought a lot about sustainability and long-term impact. The most exciting projects weren’t just one-off campaigns—they had the potential to change the way we talk about mental health for good. I looked for approaches that could grow, adapt, and continue to make a difference long after the initial idea. Communication is a powerful tool, and seeing creative, thoughtful ways to use it for mental health awareness and community change was genuinely inspiring.
would you encourage other women to take up opportunities to become assessors? what do you think are the benefits in and for women being assessors?
Absolutely! I would wholeheartedly encourage other women to take up opportunities to become assessors. It’s an incredible learning experience that not only allows you to contribute to shaping meaningful projects but also broadens your perspective on how different ideas can create real impact. Women often bring unique insights, lived experiences, and a deep understanding of community needs, which are essential in ensuring funding and support go to initiatives that truly make a difference. Being in the assessor role gives you a seat at the table—one where your voice, expertise, and perspective matter.
One of the biggest benefits of being an assessor is the exposure to fresh, creative, and innovative ideas. It challenges you to think critically, ask the right questions, and develop a strategic mindset. For women who are passionate about mental health, social justice, or community development, this is a brilliant way to get involved, refine decision-making skills, and gain confidence in assessing the impact of initiatives. It’s also an opportunity to network and collaborate with other changemakers, which can open doors to future opportunities and projects.
On a broader level, having more women in assessor roles ensures a more diverse and inclusive decision-making process. Women often advocate for representation, accessibility, and equity, bringing a perspective that might otherwise be overlooked. When women step into these spaces, they influence where resources go, what stories are amplified, and how projects are shaped. That’s powerful. So, if you’re considering it—go for it! It’s a chance to use your voice, champion causes you care about, and be part of real change.
