We’re thrilled to announce of our newest team members, Lee and Ade —seasoned Facilitators and Mentors who bring a broad range of experience and passion to our mission at the Foundation. Check out their blogs below!
Meet Ade
Hi, I’m Ade, and I’m thrilled to have joined the Foundation as a mentor and facilitator, continuing the incredible work being done here. I’m passionate about supporting young people, helping them make better life choices by equipping them with the skills and advice they need to thrive.
My journey has led me through various roles in the criminal justice field. I’ve spent years working in custody, delivering accredited interventions, and more recently, mentoring high-risk violent offenders in Coventry. My work has focused on helping these individuals reduce their offending and lead pro-social lives. Additionally, I’ve worked with agencies in the Black Country, mentoring and supporting young people involved in or on the fringes of criminal and gang activity.
Before I ventured into this field, I spent four years in the Navy—though I never actually got on a boat! I’ve also worked on a building site as a bricklayer.
Outside of work, I enjoy football, though I’ve retired from playing. I’m passionate about outdoor activities like camping, wild camping, and kayaking. You can often find me at the gym, although I tend to spend more time in the sauna or jacuzzi than on the machines. Recently, I’ve taken up Crown Green Bowling, and it’s become a new hobby of mine.
Meet lee
My career journey has been anything but linear, shaped by a diverse range of experiences that have made me who I am today. It all started in my home city of Birmingham, where I worked with secondary school children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) in various resource bases. This role was incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to connect with diverse communities and hone my communication skills. My qualification as a Level 3 British Sign Language (BSL) user proved invaluable, enabling me to bridge communication gaps and provide more effective support to students.
While working in education, I pursued further academic qualifications, balancing work with my studies. I earned a degree in Professional Practice, graduating with first-class honours. This achievement reflected my commitment to continuous learning and my passion for personal and professional growth. Armed with new knowledge and skills, I transitioned into social care, taking on the role of a Personal Advisor. This position deepened my understanding of social issues and reinforced my dedication to making a positive impact on people’s lives.
After gaining substantial experience in social care, I felt drawn back to education, this time focusing on adults. I became a financial educational trainer, a role that combined my love for teaching with my desire to help individuals make informed life choices.
Today, I feel privileged to work for a charity dedicated to helping people make better life choices. The organisation’s mission perfectly aligns with my values and career aspirations, and I’m inspired to be part of a team so passionate about creating positive change and supporting personal growth.
Outside of my professional life, I have a few hobbies that bring me joy and relaxation. I enjoy taking my dog, Reggie, for walks—although his expressive face often suggests he’s less enthusiastic about our outings! I’m also an avid film enthusiast, exploring various genres and appreciating the art of storytelling through cinema. Additionally, my love for music spans many genres, providing a constant soundtrack to my life and work.
