I run a social enterprise called Making Futures which works with disadvantaged groups to reduce isolation, boost self-esteem, build confidence and prepare people for work in a capacity that meets their needs whilst enhancing mental health and wellbeing through arts-based activities.
Making Futures is looking to run a pilot programme working with homeless individuals to produce hand-crafted goods for sale via global online platforms (eg: Etsy) and via an existing strong network of local artisan markets in Greater Manchester. A share of proceeds from goods sold will be returned to participants and part to funding future projects to ensure the venture can become self-funding in due course. It is also anticipated that the project will be able to offer meaningful ongoing work to participants in a range of areas. Participants will, for example, learn creative skills but will also have the opportunity to develop their literacy, numeracy and communication skills as well as business skills.
I have over 15 years' experience delivering arts-based projects and workshops, Arts Award and the Mozilla Foundation Open Badges. I have 12 years experience selling artisan products globally online and via specialist markets throughout the UK. I am a qualified arts for health postgraduate practitioner and have worked on a wide range of arts-based creative projects with public sector, third sector and private organisations. For the last three years I have been a mentor with Flourish CIC and an ambassador for Inspiring the Future.
In my role as a trustee of Hidden Altrincham CIO I am involved in the delivery of an annual arts trail and arts festival which brings together over 30 venues in the town to showcase the work of both local and global artists. I am the author of three textiles books and write regular technique articles and design commissions for global magazines.
I have over 12 years experience working in industry. In my former role as a senior manager and indirect tax practitioner with Ernst & Young I managed extensive portfolio of companies advising start-ups through to global plcs (CWS, Asda, United Biscuits), public sector (Manchester City Council, GMPTE) and third sector organisations (Booth Charities, Seashell Trust). I was also involved in graduate recruitment, training and mentoring as well as managing a team of 6-8 staff.