I’m a community engagement and volunteering professional working within the heritage charity sector, and my passions lie in inclusion and collaboration.

My journey started as a volunteer whilst studying for my degree in London, spending time at places like Dulwich Picture Gallery and the Wallace Collection. Some of my favourite experiences have been supporting dementia-friendly workshops, helping deliver access tours, and bringing art into community settings.

Those early volunteering roles shaped the way I work today. I’ve carried that people-first, inclusive approach into my career, managing large volunteer teams and building programmes that widen participation, especially for young people and underrepresented groups. I really believe volunteers are at the heart of great heritage experiences, and I’m passionate about creating spaces where they feel valued, heard and inspired.

For the past 5 years I was Volunteering and Community Officer at Petworth House, National Trust, where we worked hard to strengthen volunteer morale and diversity participation by introducing flexible volunteering models and creating new youth-focused initiatives. I’ve recently moved into a new role, Community Engagement Coordinator, where my work now focuses on strengthening connections and collaboration between us and our local communities.

Outside of work, I’m often running around after my energetic toddler and enjoy exploring the outdoors with my family. I paint from time to time and I also love to travel and discover new cuisines (and wine!).

Having completed a Young Trustee Traineeship last year, I’m delighted to have recently joined the board at VAAC and am excited to get going and use my experience to support the charities in which they serve. As a member myself, I’ve experienced first-hand the positive impact their work can have and have really benefited from the training and networking sessions. I hope to feed in to board discussions from a member’s perspective and look forward to meeting lots of you at future events!