Meet both our wonderful staff and trustees who make the work we do as a charity possible.
Jayanti Shah MBE brings a wealth of skills to the organisation. A director of Positive Message Ltd and co-founder of Black History Month South, Jayanti has held prominent positions with the Southampton Race Equality Council and race sub-committee, and was an ambassador for the city’s bid to be UK City of Culture 2025.
Fiona is a commercial lawyer with wide ranging experience both in-house and in private practice working in technology, media and creative industries. Her current day to day job involves advising on a broad range of legal issues across all sectors of the art market. As someone who has always loved and valued literary, performing and visual arts, she believes that all young people should have the opportunity to experience and engage with art and culture.
Emma works as a Paediatrician, specialising in Paediatric Emergency Medicine in South London. Her day-to-day job is concerned with the health and wellbeing of children and young people, as well as acting as an advocate for them. She knows that art and culture can have a huge positive impact on children and young people’s lives. She believes that this should be an opportunity available to all children and young people without exception.
Simi joined the Artswork team part time as the Sales and Marketing Officer in 2023 and holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Media Culture. Currently in her final year of counsellor training, Simi also counsels college students as part of her training.
Sarah joined Artswork in July 2003 and is now Head of Finance and Operations. Sarah has overall responsibility for the administration and coordination of all of Artswork’s finances and operations with support from the Finance and Operations team, and is an invaluable member of the team. Sarah is also Artswork’s Company Secretary.
Robert joined the Artswork Professional Development team in 2024, bringing experience from academic management in educational settings across the Middle East and Asia. Before joining Artswork, he carved a path in digital marketing as a freelance professional working with small business owners across various industries.
Rhe joined the Artswork team in June 2024 as a Creative Producer Apprentice and is working towards the Level 3 Events Assistant standard. She helps to design promotional content for events and assists with planning and delivering events in Dover for young people to help uplift their voices.
Prima Gouse joined Artswork in August 2024. Since the age of 14, she has curated art projects that unite communities and champion equal opportunities for youth to thrive. With a lifelong passion for the arts and community engagement, Prima is committed to creating inclusive spaces where young voices are celebrated and their ideas can shine.
Peta joined the Artswork team in June 2023. She has had a long and varied career, including many years as a journalist and magazine editor and a decade as a children’s author and illustrator, delivering many creative workshops in schools and in the community. Peta is passionate about empowering young people through creativity; to build confidence, increase aspiration and skills, and support their wellbeing.
For updates on our programmes, training and opportunities.