
#21in2021 Journal: Seven Up, One Down
It’s about time we had an update. My latest #21in2021 Journal tells you about the seven races finished – Seven Up!
I was fortunate enough, at the time when I started this website, that one of my friends in journalism happened to be featuring me in a piece she was writing around mental health.
In doing so, she was kind enough (in return for copious amounts of coffee!) to do a separate interview which would form the basis of this ‘about me’ page.
There has, of course been change and evolution, since 2018 but the essence of that interview remains with periodic refreshes to ensure that what you are reading is accurate and up to date.
you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir
My own life was massively impacted by mental ill health, living undiagnosed with bipolar disorder for close to fifteen years, only getting a diagnosis after three suicide attempts. I realise that every day of my life is a gift that could have been denied to me in different circumstances, which drives my determination to give others hope long before they hit their darkest moments.
As a campaigner, I am involved in campaigns around mental health awareness and wellbeing in the public space. Examples include:
Ha! Nope, the less publicity the better, but if I am going to put myself out there as a campaigner and advocate, that means sharing my story and often doing so in the most impactful way means in a public space. Moments like those below are a by-product and privilege but certainly not my why!
Absolutely correct. It’s such a privilege for me to be able to raise mental health awareness in communities where it can really impact, and that’s what typically allows me to choose the projects I am involved in.
At different points, I’ve spoken in schools, churches and prisons and I an inevitably passionate about challenging stigma in ethnic minority communities.
As an HR leader, I am a recognised speaker around workplace wellbeing and a member of the InsideOut Leaderboard and Stab
My work typically includes:
Simply put, I truly believe that Mind saved my life. After fifteen years of illness and 3 suicide attempts, it was them who led me back to the NHS for a diagnosis which gave meaning and dignity to the chaos. They were also able to educate me and my friends / family about my illness.
For many years, it’s been a privilege to be an Ambassador and be part of their own journey which has transformed how we view mental wellbeing and which has enabled them to save and transform lives in the same way they did mine.
In late 2021, I was elected as a Trustee of Mind, a hugely humbling moment for me. It is really exciting to be joining the Board to support the organisation in embedding a new strategy, with development priorities to become a truly anti-racist organisation, support young people and fight for the mental health of those in poverty. To be able to use my professional skills in enabling Mind to build on their 75 year history and sustain their success.
Please use the form on the contact page to discuss any events or projects which you think I can help you to impact.
I do have a full-time career so I am selective about the projects to which I commit, but my commitment is unparalleled once you have it.
Whatever randomly comes into my mind? Although, this will likely consist of…
PS – I tend to find that running and food go hand-in-hand!!
We’ve come a long way but not far enough. I love that we can now speak very openly around mental illness but there is still a real lack of resource and knowledge.
Simply put, two people will take their own life every hour in England and Wales, and that tells me that we still have a long way to go.
Easy, I run into work and often run back… it’s a lot cheaper than the Tube and much more relaxing!
I run 60+ miles a week… and then eat all of the things!
The work of God. How else can I describe a life transformed from the depths of suicide attempts and homelessness, a life without hope, to one where I am constantly filled with purpose and the hope that I can reach out and impact other lives.
It’s about time we had an update. My latest #21in2021 Journal tells you about the seven races finished – Seven Up!
Why humanity must be bigger than misogyny and how the words of Piers Morgan spark an issue much deeper than the Royal Family or mental health
This week I spoke with Nige from the Runners Cafe about running and mental wellbeing, as part of his Mental Health Awareness Week edition.
Ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week, I remember the kindness that saved my life. Small things, great impact. We can all save lives.
For so long we’ve told people that it’s OK not to be OK. Perhaps now is a time to encourage people, to tell them that it’s OK to be OK.
Today was not the London Marathon. However, I did run up Birdcage Walk & reflected that the journey is what changed me not the finish line.