Andy Richardson
Position: CEO
Role Description
Overall oversight of Uprising, working with the Trustees to ensure Uprising runs smoothly and efficiently on a day to day basis.
Favourite part of the job
Sitting at my desk…only joking! Working alongside people who are passionate and dedicated about seeing lives and communities transformed in Ashford and having the opportunity to work with young people and being a supportive listening ear. Young people are the future, and it is great journeying with them and helping them set off into the big wide world after they realise they can do whatever they put their minds too. I also love power tools and playing sport so the ability to leave my desk and join in on CAT and Hang10 sessions is brilliant.
Interesting Fact
From the age of 2-15 all I ate was marmite on toast for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as a result I have to have marmite daily, otherwise I get withdrawal symptoms!! I might have a few more tattoos since this pic was taken as well!
Paul Buss
Position: COO & Aspire Lead
Role Description
In short, I build lots of spreadsheets that help provide keys stats about our projects to potential funders. I also keep an eye on HR, Health & Safety and making sure we are delivering on our commitments to the community around us.
I also lead 3 projects that help educate children and teenagers. The projects also help them to develop resilience and self-worth.
Favourite part of the job
The best part of my role is when our young people begin to make good choices with their work, attitude and time. They come to us feeling isolated and low on confidence. They often leave with the feeling of achievement and renewed purpose.
Interesting Fact
Outside of work is all about family and from a young age I wanted a big family. I am very blessed to have 7 children, they keep me both young and tired all at the same time!
Chris Lightfoot
Position: Hang10 and Community Action Team Lead
Role Description
CAT Lead
Co-ordinate works and ensure that everyone within the Community Action Team staff/students are trying to help to make a difference within the community of Ashford.
Hang 10 --Lead
Using the power of sport to engage with various community groups within Ashford and develop new strands of Hang10 for disengaged and disadvantaged communities.
Favourite part of the job
Making a positive difference to peoples lives and challenging/changing people's perceptions in many different ways.
Interesting Fact
I used to a model for Hairdressers!
Abi Wylie
Position: Administration
Role Description
Everything Admin from making sure receipts are on the accounting software to writing the charities policies and making sure staff a paid.
Favourite part of the job
Observing the positive interactions between the Charity’s staff and the community members. Hearing and seeing the cheerful feedback from young people who have been involved with one or more of the Uprising projects; knowing that a need is being met and the continuing impact of the Charity remains a beneficial one.
Interesting Fact
My favourite experience is sitting behind the wheel of a Rally car and getting to really test the engine and the car’s capability.
Lisa Blackman
Position: Youth Worker/Aspire TA
Role Description
Supporting the Aspire Lead in the delivery of the project.
Favourite part of the job
Building relationships with the young people over the course of the year and watching them grow and change into young adults who have a dream for their futures.
Interesting Fact
The gym is my happy place and I’m pretty sure I could deadlift more than Eddie Hall!
Shirley Suwala-Suwalski
Position: Youth Worker/Aspire TA
Role Description
To support the delivery of the Aspire programme.
Favourite part of the job
The bond we create with our young people, it enables a safe space for them to learn in and be open with us about anything they have going on. Sometimes they come in defensive or have huge walls but they soon see we want the best for them and are here to support them on their journey. It is beautiful to see them start to believe in themselves.
Interesting Fact
My pull up game is strong, 30 pull ups is light work!
Chris Marlow
Position: Session Worker
Role Description
Supporting the CAT Lead in delivering the CAT project. I do a lot of mowing, hedge cutting, weeding and other general gardening work.
Favourite part of the job
Taking a messy garden and tidying it up! I like that we get to help people who are struggling with their gardens and that CAT also gives young people work experience.
Interesting Fact
I used to be on the Aspire programme and in one sitting I ate 24 slices of pizza, and a garlic baguette, I struggled with pudding!