My leadership experience in local government and the third sector, combined with my criminological expertise in gender-based harm and discrimination, enables me to offer a nuanced, multi-dimensional approach to DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) strategy. In local government, I operated within a multi-agency environment, navigating diverse organisational cultures and often competing priorities to ignite and lead initiatives aimed at supporting Gypsies and Travellers, one of the most excluded communities. This work required a sensitive and strategic approach to bridge gaps across agencies, align stakeholders, and ensure that our initiatives addressed immediate needs while fostering long-term inclusivity.
My third-sector experience was regional in scope and required extensive networking and relationship-building to identify shared priorities across communities and organisations. By leveraging collective strength, I worked to influence national policy, advocating for the needs of diverse groups at a higher level. This experience taught me the importance of collaborative, community-driven approaches and honed my ability to help organisations reach marginalised groups effectively and respectfully.
Additionally, my criminological background, especially in gender-based harm and discrimination, brings an evidence-based perspective on the structural and interpersonal inequalities that organisations must address. My unique combination of skills and experience allows me to empower organisations to gain a deep understanding of the diversity of lived experiences within their own teams and in the communities they serve. Through this approach, I foster empathy and encourage organisations to use this understanding as the foundation for driving culture change that actively addresses inequalities they can influence. Furthermore, I challenge them to advocate for broader structural and systemic changes that dismantle barriers impeding progress, enabling them to pursue their mission with greater inclusivity and impact.
Ultimately, this approach helps organisations expand their reach, build trust, and deliver services that resonate meaningfully with all individuals they serve, fostering inclusive, equitable environments both internally and externally.”