My first work experience came from a marketing background, through working at two exciting agencies in London on international music, sports and entertainment events. However a volunteer experience in 2007 changed the direction I was headed in. My current passion is my on-going work in South Africa. I currently serve as the Programme Manager of a Child & Youth Centre. I have been involved in work within the Eastern Cape for the last 14 years. From my initial trip I set up the UK registered charity Maranatha Care Children, through which we look to raise money for projects we work with improving the lives of South African orphans, street children and other young people at risk.I am currently based in Port Elizabeth / Gqeberha, running the charity whilst out in the field. My goal is to make brighter futures possible for those we support; helping them to overcome the immense disadvantage they have experienced in their lives.I am a qualified social worker having completed my training at Plymouth University (BSc Hons) where I am also an honorary lecturer. Through the duration of course I gained experience working with dementia care, self-harm, refugees and in statutory services for children and young people (through which I carried out full child protection training). At a post-graduate level I have trained in play therapy, adding a valuable therapeutic dimension to the practical work I am undertaking with traumatised children on a daily basis. I have also carried out various presentations at schools and further education establishments.In 2016 I was awarded with a British Citizen Award (BCA) and in 2020 I was recognised with a British Empire Medal (BEM) in the Queens New Years Honours Specialties: Fundraising Charity Marketing Non-profitsPublic SpeakingSouth AfricaChild-Centred Social Work Residential CareProgramme Management Therapeutic InterventionsSupportive Counseling Play TherapyLife Skills TrainingEngaging Education