What do you do when you haven’t got your trustee hat on?
I started my Early Years Business Consultancy in 2011, I have since won several business-related awards. I have clients across England and can be in London, Cambridge or Southend, to name a few, as well as working more locally. I have also been a trustee for a charity in Hyndburn since 2014. I am a mentor for East Lancs Chamber of Commerce and Community and Business Partners in Blackburn, I have been fortunate to support some very successful business start-ups. I love to spend time with all of my wonderful immediate and extended family. I like to bake and enjoy making cupcakes for the younger family members birthdays.
What do you do on the Trustee Board?
I am part of the strategic planning subgroup, we developed the overall strategic plan, providing direction for the organisation, without a plan it’s a bit like going for a walk and not knowing which route you are taking or your destination. We also plan for events that are happening throughout the year, some are relatively easy, others like our first wedding fayre in April take a lot more planning. My primary function is to identify and apply for grants that will support our plans for the organisation. I am pleased to say we have been reasonably successful, some awards have only been for a few hundred pounds and others over £100K, but every little counts. There is still more to do so I will continue applying, hoping to build on recent successes.
How are you finding being a Trustee so far? Being a trustee is very rewarding in so many ways, working with so many talented and skilled people is a privilege. There are 15 trustees all of whom bring different experiences, knowledge and skills to the table, we are very fortunate in Trawden to have such a varied group.
What made you decide to volunteer as a Trustee?
I didn’t actually volunteer, I was asked I think! I had been the chairperson of the Garden Festival and Scarecrow Trail for several years and was known by a number board members, my name came up during discussions and hey presto I was co-opted on four years ago, the rest is history.
What would you like to happen next for Trawden?
Trawden is going from strength to strength; however I think we need to engage the younger community more, they are hopefully our future trustees and volunteers. I would like to see a group of 11- 16-year-olds formed who can input their ideas and views into the organisation’s future plans.
What is your favourite drink, song and film?
I don’t drink a lot, but I do like a Prosecco or two and gin and tonic, although I have recently discovered I like Black Sambuca, so perhaps I drink more than I think! My favourite song is ‘I will always love you’ by Whitney Houston.
Favourite film is the classic black and white film ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ with James Stewart. I watch it every Christmas.