Why Being a Trustee at Clore Social Leadership Is So Rewarding

This Trustees Week, I’ve been reflecting on what trusteeship really means — and why it’s one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences for me. Serving as a trustee not only allows me to contribute to Clore Social Leadership but also enriches my growth and understanding as a leader.

My connection with Clore Social Leadership started long before I joined the board, when I participated in the Clore Social Leadership Programme and Fellowship. The programme was crucial in shaping my identity as a leader in the social sector. They provided me with the space to explore my values, build my confidence, and develop a sense of leadership that goes beyond titles. The support from peers has been invaluable; even nine years later, we still maintain our connections and encourage each other. Our cohort group have plans to meet again in a couple of weeks.

When I became a Trustee four years ago, it felt like a natural step. It was my chance to give back to an organization that had profoundly affected my life and to help ensure its mission continues to empower future leaders.

A Front-Row Seat to Purpose-Driven Leadership

At Clore Social, each decision revolves around one crucial question: how can we support and develop leaders who create real societal change? Observing this purpose in action across every program and partnership is consistently inspiring. The focus on values, authenticity, and courage is evident in every aspect of our work.

Clore Social Leadership is deeply committed to developing leaders who can tackle society's complex challenges. Through my role as a trustee, I have seen firsthand the transformative impact of our leadership development programs.

A Space for Challenge and Growth

Trusteeship is more than just governance; it involves learning, listening, and stewardship. The diverse thoughts and experiences present at the board table push me to grow. It’s a collaborative environment where ideas and values merge to advance our mission.

For instance, discussions with fellow trustees often highlight perspectives that are completely different from my own, leading to richer decision-making. This diversity of thought fosters an environment conducive to creative solutions and strategies. I’ve learned that often, the best ideas emerge from respectful challenges and deep discussions.

A Natural Extension of My Purpose

My work has always centred on enabling young people to fulfil their potential and helping organisations in the social sector to do their best work. As a leader, I’ve served as Co-CEO, Deputy CEO, and Director in national charities — experiences that taught me how to balance purpose, people, and performance. That foundation now shapes my work as a Coach with individuals from a range of contexts and as a Charity Co-Pilot, where I partner with CEOs and leadership teams to bring clarity, creativity, and structure to their strategy, governance, and operations.

My role as a Trustee at Clore Social Leadership perfectly complements this experience. It aligns with my wider purpose — to strengthen leadership and capacity across the social sector — and allows me to contribute my skills and insight to an organisation that develops the very qualities I value most in leadership: creativity, courage, and compassion.

A vibrant community collaborating and connecting as birds take flight above.

Deep Personal Fulfilment

There’s something uniquely special about giving your time and expertise to a mission you believe in. Trusteeship grounds me in my purpose and keeps me learning, connected, and inspired. It’s a constant reminder that leadership is a collective act — and that by supporting others, we create ripples of change that reach far beyond ourselves.

And Finally.....

As we celebrate #TrusteesWeek, I want to acknowledge every trustee who gives their time, care, and expertise to strengthen the organisations that make our communities better. You are the quiet backbone of our social fabric.

For me, being a Trustee at Clore Social Leadership is one of the most rewarding parts of my life. It brings together everything I care about — leadership, purpose, and helping others to grow.

If you’ve ever considered becoming a trustee, this is the perfect time to explore it. It will stretch you, teach you, and connect you to something deeply meaningful.

👉 Learn more about Trustees Week: https://trusteesweek.org/

👉 Discover Clore Social Leadership: https://cloresocialleadership.org.uk