When did you join ELBA / BIG Alliance?
December 2022

What is your role and what does it involve?
I’m a project manager within the Challenge team. My role is to facilitate and connect corporate to community via practical hands-on volunteering opportunities across east London. These opportunities are not only a great chance for team building but also make an impactful and transformative contribution to local communities. We support schools, city farms, youth groups, hospices, nurseries, community gardens, estate halls, resident associations, parks, public spaces, adventure playgrounds, community centres and social enterprises across east London.

Since joining ELBA, I have jumped in with both feet by supporting the Toy Appeal, designing and managing corporate volunteering campaigns, as well as leading on aspects of ELBA’s cost of living response. It’s been an intense six months, but I’ve enjoyed the fast pace!

Three words to describe yourself
Driven, passionate and always-hungry!

Tell us one thing that people may not know about you
About 10/11 years ago, I decided to learn how to do my own hair and nail extensions. Based primarily in the ‘countryside’ at the time, there were not many hairstylists who knew how to deal with Afro-textured hair and I couldn’t always afford to get my nails done – these were luxuries. So, I jumped on YouTube and learnt how to do it all myself!

Tell us the best thing about working for ELBA
The people! Corporate, community and colleagues alike. I’ve been able to build such a rapport and develop relationships which I have enjoyed doing. I’m also big on community development, so being able to contribute to that, in the area I live in, is super fulfilling.

Name your favourite place in east London and why
This is difficult! It has to be between Silvertown Royal Docks and Fish Island area near Hackney Wick. Both are very much up and coming areas now, but I enjoy being by the water and they both have great places to eat, drink and chill out all day people-watching. They have great views and good vibes, which make for stunning summertime pics!

Complete this sentence ‘The absolute best thing about volunteering is…’,
…making a positive impact. Supporting my local community to make a meaningful difference and create positive change to allow for the betterment of society is fulfilling.