I first walked into Contact, just over three years ago on the invite of then Chair of the Board Junior Akinola. Having no knowledge of the arts venue and theatre beforehand, there was so much that left me blown away on this initial visit. The buildings design, the scale and the sheer range of programmes and shows on offer, all stood out on my first visit.

But what blew me away the most, was the deeply ingrained commitment to youth voice and youth leadership. As someone who spent so many of my younger years with dreams of being an actor and performing on stage, to see a theatre specially tailored towards young people with so many dedicated programmes to engage the widest possible array of young people was so inspiring to see.

Furthermore, it was so revolutionary for me personally to see that this was a commitment which went right the way to the top of the organisation and was embedded into every decision made. But what was maybe more revolutionary was the fact that for everyone else at the organisation, this was the absolute norm and had been woven into the fabric of every person involved with the organisation.

As I come to the end of my term as I trustee, I can’t help but be thankful and grateful for the opportunities and experiences I have been given. Joining the board at the age of 24, and being one of a number of young trustees under the age of 30, I was able to witness firsthand that Contact not only talked the talk of youth leadership, but walked the walk.

Contact ensured that I was only ever viewed as an equally important member of the organisation as anyone else. Senior board members made sure to not only include me, but mentor and teach me through the importance of governance allowing me to bring my specific perspective to our discussion ensuring the views of the young people we look to serve, remains at the forefront of all we do.

The past three years have been a difficult time not just for the organisation, but the entire arts sector. Despite this, I am proud that throughout these times Contact has never waivered on its commitment to be a place for young people to be their whole and best self. Being a trustee for this remarkable organisation has been an opportunity of a lifetime. I’ve been able to grow, develop incredible leadership experience and make a true impact within the arts sector which means so much to me.

I would encourage everyone with a focus, care and concern for young people or the arts to connect with the mission of Contact and be a part of this transformative organisation's future, as I have been so lucky to be a small part of its past.