Administrative Assistant
As a teenager…
I was born in Stockport, South Manchester, youngest of four. I would say I was a very self-conscious teenager with big hair (it was the 80s) I always had a very visual brain from being a child through to my teens. I remember my schoolteacher, Mrs Hall, would tell us stories about her travels. I was fascinated by how she articulated it so vividly. I could absolutely see it! Years later, I still recall how that made me feel. It is funny what stays with you, the impressions people make on you. Yes, I would say self-conscious and socially awkward (my sister’s partner recalls that when he met me as a teenager I didn’t speak for the first 12 months) but I did love to laugh though.
After School…
I went on to study A levels in Art, Psychology and English Language and then furthered my Art and Design education at Stockport College. A degree then followed at Nottingham Trent University specialising in woven textiles. I later found out my great uncle Ernest, who was an artist, was a weaver by day. That blew my mind!
My first job in the industry was as a Product Developer and Studio Manager at a weaving mill. Since then, I have picked up experience in Product Design, Design and Trend Forecasting, Sourcing, Curating, Merchandising, Marketing and Graphic Design.
Although I think creatively, I also think methodically and so I like to keep things tidy and organised. Just don’t look in a certain cupboard in my flat. Oh, come on, we all have one!
And Now…
In February 2021 I took the leap to go freelance. The intention was to offer any skills I have to work in support of charities and social enterprises. I specialised in written and visual marketing, community engagement and working to priority of need. Since then, I have been blessed to have worked with incredible organisations and people who do incredible things. I have worked on local and global not for profit and community projects, and with local creatives on pre and post launch marketing campaigns. I also help at The Re-Store / West End Impact on a voluntary basis. I initially joined the E2M team back in 2022 for a year and a half and have recently rejoined the charity after necessary personal leave. I am so delighted and beyond excited to be back with such a values driven team and to be working from the new E2M hub! A space, a 3-D, bricks and mortar hug and a symbol of all that E2M is about and a testament to all the hard work the team and young people have put in to deliver from dream to reality.
I am truly heart warmed by the transformative and impactful work people are pioneering within this organisation and if I can help support that in any way, I will be a very happy soul.
