A Chapter of Change, A Lifetime of Gratitude

Articulate, what can I say – this place has been truly transformative in my life. From the early days of feeling like a fish out of water, overwhelmed by the gravity of the change needed, to now – where I’ve built close relationships with young people, staff, artists, and partners – I feel immense pride in the incredible work I’ve been privileged to support and lead.

Being part of such an amazing, ambitious, and inspirational organisation has become part of my DNA. It runs through my veins, my mind, and, most importantly, my heart.

My role as Producer is changing. Although it’s a positive transition for both the organisation and for me, it’s also tinged with sadness. And though I’ve said this before, it bears repeating – on a daily basis I am humbled and inspired by the courage and tenacity of the young people who choose us. I’m also inspired by the people who literally bust a gut to make safe, supportive, and creative spaces for young people who’ve been dealt some of life’s toughest hands.

I’m proud to have been part of this for the last six years.

Reflecting on my time, I’m overwhelmed – literally, there aren’t enough tissues. But I am looking to the future – a space where I hope to use my passion, knowledge, and skills to impact real change, to honour stories of strength in the face of adversity, and to spotlight the long-overdue and much-deserved need for transformation.

In my time, I’ve met so many amazing young people. I’ve witnessed their ups, downs, and everything in between. I’ve been proud to stand side by side with them as they figured things out – sometimes with a lot of encouragement and support, sometimes with just a wee nudge in the right direction. From late-night texts, panicked calls, and moments of crisis to the joyful moments of passed driving tests, university placements, new jobs and businesses, relationships, graduations, and baby scans – these are the moments that must be retold. They challenge the negative narratives and statistics.

We’ve painted big things on walls, made loud statements through public campaigns, put shows on stages, and recounted stories – always with consent – in papers and on the radio. But the true importance of this work is often seen in the quieter moments: when someone tries something new, speaks their truth for the first time, or reaches out for help in spite of their fears of being rejected or failed. Sometimes this happens in our spaces; sometimes we hear it from a carer or social worker.

The truth is, this work is hard – for the organisations and the people working in it, but especially for those who live it day to day. Never underestimate the courage it takes to walk through a door for the first time.

I’ve thrived on road trips, giggling about wrong turns, camping, building fires, burning sausages, telling stories, booking taxis, ordering munchie boxes, being lovingly poked fun at, and holding quiet spaces where people can communicate through the arts. The memories I’ve made shape who I am – and my ambitions for the future and for the future of care experienced people.

I will remain deeply committed to advocating for the cultural rights of care experienced young people. Recognising that access to arts and cultural expression is not just a privilege but a fundamental right, and that change really does #STARTWITHARTS.

So in this moment of change, I’m grateful for every up and every down. I want to thank every young person who has been part of my time here. Our time together has changed me for the better.