When did you join ELBA?
My journey with ELBA has been nothing short of incredible. I actually started out as a Parity candidate – Parity being an employability project funded by State Street, designed to support young Black men in achieving their career aspirations. I first heard about the programme through a friend’s recommendation back in 2019, shortly after I finished university. The experience was transformative. I received tailored employability support and was matched with a mentor who had a huge impact on both my personal and professional growth.

What is your role and what does it involve?
In my current role, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with a wide range of corporate partners who are genuinely committed to making a difference in the lives of young people in our community. What continues to motivate me most is the job satisfaction that comes from helping others. There’s nothing quite like receiving a message from a young person saying that I’ve had a positive impact on their life — it’s a feeling that goes far beyond what any job title can offer.

My role also involves engaging with community organisations and learning about the amazing work they’re doing. It’s inspiring to see how we’re all working toward the same mission – and how much stronger we are when we collaborate.

Three words to describe yourself
Genuine, Passionate and Creative.

Tell us one thing that people may not know about you
Something many people might not know about me is that I really value peace and quiet. I enjoy taking time to reflect, listen to my own thoughts, and appreciate the world around me.

Tell us the best thing about working for ELBA
My time with ELBA has been a wonderful and defining part of my life – one that has shaped who I am today, both personally and professionally.

Name your favourite place in east London and why
As for my favourite place in east London, it’s impossible to choose just one! Each part has its own unique energy: the corporate world of Canary Wharf, the creative vibe of Shoreditch, the cultural richness of Whitechapel, and the vibrant community spirit in Stratford and Hackney. East London truly offers a bit of everything.

Complete this sentence: ‘The absolute best thing about volunteering is…’
…The chance to give back and make a real difference. It’s a reminder of how privileged many of us are and how much we can learn from others’ stories. Through volunteering, we don’t just help others, we also grow, develop new skills and gain a deeper understanding of the world around us.