Adetola has lived experience of the criminal justice system and faced significant challenges when reintegrating back into society. She had been in custody at HMP Holloway in 2014, and felt that there was not enough mental wellbeing support or a clear direction for neurodivergent people:
“I directly experienced a severe lack of wellbeing resources and support, especially when released from rehabilitation. This inspired me to help myself, and now others, to overcome these challenges with relevant resources and support.”
Back2LifeProjectUK is dedicated to supporting and empowering neurodivergent minority women. The organisation is committed to helping minority women on their journey towards reintegration into the community and the workplace environment. Their mission is to ensure that these women receive the necessary resources, support, and guidance to thrive and succeed.
In the UK, these types of services are overstretched to meet the needs of these vulnerable groups. However, supporting women in the criminal justice system and women who have experienced the criminal justice system is incredibly important, as they are more inclined to face significant physical, economic, social, and psychological barriers.
Adetola says:
“I understood the importance and impact of being that person meeting up with individuals on their release, being that person that was waiting for them, to welcome them back into the community as well as motivating them to work on their goals.”
Adetola originally reached out to Working Chance, as she was keen to find work and accomplish her goals of launching her own business and becoming self-employed. During this time, she was informed about an opportunity with The Forward Trust and was invited to pitch at their 2025 Dragon’s Den event:
“I reached out and was fortunate to meet Stephen (Enterprise Coach), who provided me with more details about the event. He explained that it was a fantastic networking opportunity and not solely about winning. With this advice in mind, I focused on making sure I was mentally prepared and committed to participating.”
Adetola was the well-deserved winner on the day, after delivering an incredible pitch which wowed the judges. With the £1,000 cash prize, she was able to complete and print out her books, purchase some essential office supplies, and acquire promotional merchandise.
“Without the support of The Forward Trust, reigniting my passion and taking Back2Life to this level would not have been possible. I feel my time on the Forward Enterprise service programme enhanced my knowledge and experience and helped me channel it into promoting and developing my business.”
Adetola is currently balancing running my business alongside other work, gaining skills and qualifications that she will use as part of her business development.
“I will soon be piloting the project at HMP Downview and have managed to collaborate with No Going Back. I am looking forward to the positive impact we can create together, by delivering a successful pilot and hopefully rolling out to other prisons.”
