As the Founder and Director of Phoenix Education Centre, I am dedicated to tackling educational disadvantage in East Belfast. Our non-profit organization works tirelessly to support the hardest-to-reach individuals, including school refusers, by providing critical resources, support, and innovative projects that empower young people to achieve their full potential. I believe that addressing educational inequality is essential not only for individual success but also for the broader goal of peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland.My journey is deeply personal. Growing up in a working-class community, I faced many of the challenges that I now work to overcome for others. As a young mum and a school leaver with few qualifications, I later returned to education as a mature student, earning my degree and setting the stage for a career dedicated to social change. My lived experiences—being a female loyalist, navigating cultural identity, and overcoming educational barriers—inform my work and advocacy. I speak publicly about these intersectionality’s, emphasizing the importance of understanding the impact of unresolved trauma from the conflict in Northern Ireland on our communities.Recognized as the leading voice in East Belfast on educational disadvantage, this role has afforded me the opportunity to speak on numerous panels, podcasts, and media outlets, where I share insights on the challenges within my community and explore innovative solutions. My work has taken me to significant platforms both at home and abroad in the United States, including Westminster Forum and Shared Island panels, amongst others where I have engaged with key figures such as statutory bodies, government officials, and high-profile politicians like Taoiseach Simon Harris, Tánaiste Micheál Martin, Chris Eaton-Harris and Special Envoy Joe Kennedy III. In addition to public speaking, I have contributed articles to publications, including the Irish Journal, where I discuss the critical issues of educational inequality and the need for systemic change. My advocacy extends beyond the local community, as I collaborate with various organizations and stakeholders to create lasting impact and drive forward the objectives of Phoenix Education Centre.At the heart of my work is a passion for creating opportunities and fostering hope. I am committed to ensuring that every young person in East Belfast has the chance to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through education, support, and community engagement, I strive to build a brighter, more equitable future for all.