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About Op Belonging

OP: BELONGING as the social and wellbeing focus arms of Civil Military Relations (CMR), a not for profit organisation that recognises that belonging is crucial for individuals to thrive and contribute to the community. Our Vision is to create inclusive environments where diverse perspectives are valued and embraced. Through our partership with LTL, Op: Belonging offers resources, workshops, and community-building opportunites to help individuals cultivate self-awareness, authenticity, and the ability to lead from their unique
strengths and values.

Our aim is to Reinvent the Commonwealth and Overseas troops Experience in Britain and develop them to become economically inclusive in both their adopted country and birth country. Each of our project is aligned with a UN sustainable goals so people, places & planet can prosper.

Commonwealth & Overseas Service Troops

Commonwealth & Overseas troops are vital for the success of the UK economy, we empower those who are serving in…

Commonwealth & Overseas Families

Forces families, children and spouses are the number one supporters for the well-being of Commonwealth and Overseas soldiers, sailors and…

Commonwealth & Overseas Veterans

Commonwealth and overseas veterans have been serving in the armed forces for over 200 years. We empower them to navigate…

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Our Mission

Our mission is to Develop Commonwealth and Overseas folks in Britain into Diplomatic Leaders aligned with sustainable goals to make the world a better place.

South Asia

When moving to the UK, Gurkhas and their families often struggle with cultural adjustment. Many Gurkhas have spent their entire…

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South Asia

South Pacific

Many people do not understand the blend of culture the Fijian brings to the UK. The Fijian community in the…

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South Pacific

Caribbean

The Caribbean community has shown remarkable resilience and has made significant contributions to British society in various fields, including healthcare,…

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Caribbean

Africa

The complex nature of integration for African Commonwealth in Britain, encompassing economic, social, and cultural dimensions. Addressing these issues requires…

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Africa

Some of our projects across the UK

We are currently working with Walsall Community Association

Being part of Society and actively involved is key for integration. Commonwealth and overseas troops are normally operating behind the…

Working with Military Community in the New Forest

Settlement in Britain is the biggest challenge for Gurkhas and the Commonwealth after they have given their service. We actively…

Working with Local Community in Southampton

We collaborate with the BBAM festival as part of the United Voice of African Association (TUVAA) to raise awareness among…

Building Communities Across Scotland

We are working with local communities and Universities, such as Al-Maktoum College, Abertay University, and the University of Dundee, across…

Supporting Local Churches in Tidworth Garrison

We understand that Faith plays an important role in the lives of Commonwealth & Overseas Troops, we work in collaboration…

Working with Local Armed Forces Community in Colchester Garrison

We are currently looking to collaborate with Local communities across Colchester to network with the Civil-Military Community of the armed…

Restoration Projects

We work in the community to help build and restore buildings and infrastructure, using our Royal Engineers and Royal Electrical…

Commonwealth Catering in the Community

Alongside our Military Chefs, we collaborate with the community to prepare food and serve the local community, building bridges and…

What are our Ambassadors saying

As the founder and administrator of Veterans Support Services in Catterick Garrison, Mark
continues to serve his community by fostering a sense of belonging and purpose among
veterans. He also delivers weekly briefings to early service leavers, equipping them with the
tools and confidence needed to succeed beyond military life.

Mark Hill MBE Catterick Garrison

I’m proud to become an ambassador for Op Belonging here in Cambridgeshire to support our Commonwealth personnel and Gurkhas, whose invaluable contributions often go unrecognised . I want to ensure they receive the respect, representation, and opportunities they deserve for their service and sacrifice to our fine nation.

Cllr Simon Bywater Cambridgeshire

Op Belonging is a vital initiative that seeks to improve the lives of Foreign and Commonwealth soldiers and officers after…

The mission is clear, the intent, just and true, the passion, evident. The book and the app give voice and purpose to the F & C community and demand they be heard by those that have called upon them to serve the UK. Service begets respect and loyalty, what is deserved.

Lt Col (Ret) Michael Lawrence Ambassador South East England

I support Op Belonging because I believe in creating inclusive communities where every individual feels valued and connected. Having served in the military, I understand the importance of belonging and the profound impact it has on mental well-being and resilience. I’m committed to initiatives that foster unity and support for veterans, knowing firsthand how crucial it is to provide a sense of belonging to those who have dedicated their lives to service. Op Belonging’s mission aligns with my values of community, support, and empowerment, making it a cause I wholeheartedly endorse.

Mark Laid ~ CEO Laids of Troon Ambassador East Scotland

Some of my fondest memories and operational experiences in my 24 years in the British Army have been serving alongside Commonwealth troops. By being part of Op Belonging, I aim to highlight how their exceptional skill sets and unique cultural heritage have helped shape history and continue to do so to this day.

Matthew Smith ~ CEO of Highland Kings Ambassador East Scotland

Become a member

Our app is for Commonwealth & Overseas personnel, veterans and their families who have served and serving the British Armed Forces.

C & O Personnel

Join Us

Free

  • Please note membership is only accepted upon sponsorship by two fellow members.

C & O families

join us

FREE

  • As a member of the F & C, spouses and children over the age of 18 are also welcome to all our events.

Meet Our Leadership Team

Samuela Seru Deputy Chair

Samuela is the Deputy Chair for the West Midlands and oversees the refurbishment of the Commonwealth House.

Mark Balawakula 2nd Deputy Chair

Mark is the editor for The Civil Military Magazine and 2nd Deputy Chair for Tdiworth

Iveri Vukuqaqa Deputy Chair

Iveri is the Deputy Chair for Scotland and also the lead for Commonwealth Hubs in the region.

Ema Lomalagi 2nd Deputy Chair

Ema is the 2nd Deputy Chair for Aldershot and works closely with the South West Team for event planning.

Ray Amaning 2nd Deputy Chair

Ray is part of the Editorial team and 2nd Deputy Chair for Colchester

Manasa Nayaga Deputy Chair South West

Manasa looks after the events in the South West alongside his team.

Joe Navoka Deputy Chair - Event Planning

Joe oversees the running of our Events with our local regional team across the UK.

Sikiasi Sovanivalu Deputy Chair - Head of SCB Bookclubs

Sova supports our SCB book clubs in the South Pacific to enhance the literacy of underprivileged children.

Mr Mosese Tekei Deputy - Chair, Head of Pastoral Care

Moses is a Deputy Chair and is responsible for the pastoral care of the team and the communities we are…

Where Are We In the UK

Op Belonging is based in Southampton, Birmingham, & Dundee with satellite offices in Tidworth, Aldershot, Colchester, Stoke, Catterick, Argyll and in regions where our projects are run.

Hillcrest house, 26 Leigh road, Southampton, Hampshire SO50 9DT UK

(+44) 330 001 5318

Our Success In Numbers

1000 Members so far
12 Project Implemented
26 Countries
7 New Project