During a time of social distancing and restricted movement, we find ourselves physically isolated – but that doesn’t mean we can’t connect with each other. It’s actually essential that we do so during times like these because now, more than ever, we need each other the most!
The rise in coronavirus cases has evolved into another national crisis that’s called for us to support our own communities. If you’ve been struggling to deal with problems on your own – self-care isn’t enough to get you through this pandemic. With community care, you’ll be provided the support needed during these hard times, making collective care key to getting through this.
But what exactly is community care? It’s the compassion we show others, whether one or many, and the actions we take to do so – regardless of the size. Here are a few ways you can practice community care during the CMCO:
- Support small businesses
During the first lockdown, small businesses took a big hit – seeing the closure of many stores and restaurants across the nation. The other remaining enterprises have been struggling to stay afloat, which is why it would really help to order from home-based food businesses, buy groceries from local farmers, and shop local products from home-grown brands.
2. Check in on your family, friends and colleagues
The uncertainty has made it a stressful and anxiety-inducing time for us all, so if you have the mental capacity to do so – check in on others and let them know you’re there for them. Even if you’re unable to, show that you still care by sending them an emoji or even a song!
3. Help those in need
You don’t always have to donate money to help, you can also volunteer your time and skills. Start a fundraising campaign, help raise funds by sharing an existing campaign, or go through your belongings to find things you can donate.
4. Check for facts and fake news
This is important for everyone’s mental health and wellbeing as the spread of fake news and rumours have caused many to feel anxious and overwhelmed. Stay informed and double check any news you receive before sharing it – make sure it comes from a reputable source!
5. Be more eco-friendly
For hygiene reasons, the use of disposable plastic products has rapidly grown – causing the pandemic to have a negative effect on the environment as well. Make the effort to minimise your single-use plastic waste by switching to reusable bottles, cutlery and containers. Don’t forget to sanitize!
Community care isn’t here to replace self-care, it’s a necessary addition to it. Take care of yourself and others during this time – the only way we can curb COVID-19 again is by working together!
This weekend, pop over to Aitch Coffee Roasters in Mutiara Damansara for the very first edition of Ngegeh & Co – a new platform created to support female entrepreneurs through monthly curated events. Featuring Instagram’s fave homemade food and treats from founders Chiq Supply (Chiq Ruslan), Baked With Butter (Naddy Rahman) and Ephrodite (Ellysha Elkany), the pop-up spreads across both days from 12pm to 6pm.
With community support being more important than ever, Ngegeh & Co is building a network of women during this tough time to help their businesses survive and grow. The other vendors include female-owned startups Klean Supply, who sell naturally-fragranced hand sanitisers, and Nood Cosmetics, a vegan makeup brand.
But what does “ngegeh” mean? The Sarawakian term is commonly used to describe women as attention-seeking – a negative stereotype that continues to accuse and even dismiss females for “seeking attention”. Co-founder, Chiq Ruslan, stands up against this blatant sexism, sharing, “We aim to reclaim the world ‘ngegeh’ and change the narrative. We believe all women, including the ‘ngegeh’ ones, can build a name, business and even an empire for herself!”
Show these female entrepreneurs (and your tummy) some love at the sustainable event. If you bring your own tupperwares, bottles and bags – you’ll receive a RM2 discount from all vendors for helping to reduce waste and protect the environment.
Ngegeh & Co Pop-Up Weekend
Date: Saturday, 26 – Sunday, 27 September, 2020
Venue: Aitch Coffee Roasters, Mutiara Damansara
Time: 12pm – 6pm
Follow them on Instagram to stay updated on future events and vendor opportunities!
