Our Vision
Our Mission
Our achievements
Getaway Girls has empowered girls and young women in Leeds for over 30 years. We have supported over 13,500 young women to learn new skills, build confidence, resilience and aspiration.
To hear about how we’ve positively impacted the lives of young women for over 30 years, download our 30 Years 30 Stories booklet.
Awards
Children and Young People Now National Awards:
Youth work award and Children
Young People’s Charity of the year
Leeds Compassionate City Awards:
Cultural Project of the year
Our Core Values & Principles
EMPOWERMENT
Our work is underpinned young women centred, strength based approaches where young women’s Voices & influence are important.
COLLABORATION
We work in partnership with young women, communities and other services.
COMPASSION
All our paid staff, trustees, volunteers and peer educators are positive role models who care about making a difference.
EQUALITY & INCLUSION
Equality, diversity are important to us. We are welcoming & inclusive.
CREATIVITY & INNOVATION
We develop creative, safe, flexible innovative projects.
VOICE & INFLUENCE
We Empower young women to have their say and influence change locally and nationally.
Our journey
Getaway Girls was set up in 1987 and became a registered charity in 1990 originally to introduce young women to outdoor activities/ adventure education. It was felt that this was a male dominated area of work and in order to redress this Getaway Girls set about developing exciting opportunities for young women who may otherwise have a chance to try these activities.
Due to the changing needs of young women and new funding becoming available Getaway Girls expanded quickly. Getaway Girls has striven to remain flexible in its approach and as a result grew from being a small team to an organisation employing 18 staff and an active team of volunteers delivering a variety of projects. Our committed staff team have continued to offer a high quality service ensuring that Getaway Girls continues its reputation as an excellent organisation working with young women within Leeds.
Our team
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I was involved in the start of Getaway Girls in 1987 and became the Director in 2010. My role is to manage the organisation including staff and resources.
I was involved in the start of Getaway Girls in 1987 and became the Director in 2010. My role is to manage the organisation including staff and resources.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
My job is very varied and includes: Planning for the present and future of Getaway Girls with our trustees staff, volunteers, peer educators and girls and young women, ensuring our work fits within Getaway Girls values, principles, produce clear plans and write reports evidencing our work. Recruiting staff and overseeing the quality of our work and research the needs of young women and set up new services and projects based on needs. Fundraising for the work of Getaway Girls- approx. £440,000 per year, work with existing partnerships and alliances including Women’s Lives Leeds, establishing new partnerships and opportunities and work to raise the profile, share good practice, represent Getaway Girls within Leeds and nationally,
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about youth work and love working for Getaway Girls with an amazing diverse staff team who bring their knowledge, skills and experience to make a difference in young women’s lives. The best part of my job is knowing that we make a difference in young women’s lives.
I’ve worked for 38 years as a youth worker in Leeds and still love my job. I also enjoy listening to music, reading and spending time with my grandchildren.
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I have worked at Getaway Girls for the past 11 years and have had many different roles. I currently work on the Safe Space Service as a specialist Child Sexual Exploitation worker. My work offers support to young women aged 11-18 in Leeds, working on a 121 basis, group work and detached outreach sessions looking at keeping safe and reducing the risk of harm.
I have worked at Getaway Girls for the past 11 years and have had many different roles. I currently work on the Safe Space Service as a specialist Child Sexual Exploitation worker. My work offers support to young women aged 11-18 in Leeds, working on a 121 basis, group work and detached outreach sessions looking at keeping safe and reducing the risk of harm.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
Before working at Getaway Girls; as a teenager I worked in catering. I especially like working at the Elland road stadium for the football matches as the atmosphere is fab! Whist I was studying at University for my degree in Youth and Community Development, I have worked in various jobs in retail, clubs and bars, and as a carer for people suffering with dementia. I love meeting new people and I’m very passionate about the work I do and continuing my professional development.
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
I’m from Leeds and love living and working here! I have three young children who keep me extremely busy at home with various sporting activities, board games, reading and baking. When I have a bit of me time I love to read or catch up with friends for a nice meal and a giggle. One thing I’d like to do in the future is travel and visit & see as much of the world as possible! A road trip through Europe in a campervan would be an ideal start.
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty. This quote reminds me why I love working at Getaway Girls, we have the pleasure of witnessing the young people evolve, grow and develop their individual strengths and passions, within a safe structured environment with fun encompassing the work involved. Maya Angelou
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I first got involved with Getaway girls young mum’s group for support. With all the support I received from GG I then wanted to become a mentor for other young mums who had similar experiences as me. Before I started my volunteering role I completed the introduction to the youth work course. I then started off as a volunteer supporting the group side by side. I supported the young women with their mental health and supported women who had language barriers within the group. I speak several languages including Amharic and Arabic.
I first got involved with Getaway girls young mum’s group for support. With all the support I received from GG I then wanted to become a mentor for other young mums who had similar experiences as me. Before I started my volunteering role I completed the introduction to the youth work course. I then started off as a volunteer supporting the group side by side. I supported the young women with their mental health and supported women who had language barriers within the group. I speak several languages including Amharic and Arabic.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
Gaining the experience as a volunteer gave me the confidence to then apply for a part time youth work role at GG. I facilitate a group called Sisters which is for Eritrean and Ethiopian young women. When the women come to the group it allows them to be themselves and to build on their confidence as the langue barrier is really hard for them in society. But also meeting young mums and women who face the same challenges. Alongside doing the sisters group I also facilitated the 16-19 Young Mums group and 11-13’s group. I have done groups in schools including Girls Talk and groups for young women new to Leeds.
By doing the activities it allowed them to express how they felt as there English was very minimal. It made me feel really happy that they were able to express their feelings though the work I was doing with them. By supporting the young girls in school it was encouraging them to come to GG and gain more support and come to our groups. Working at Getaway Girls makes me feel really good as a youth worker as I felt I was making a difference in supporting them. It has given me the strength and confidence be the best youth worker I can be.
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
My hobbies include enjoying time with my children and friends.
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I first got involved with Getaway Girls during lockdown as a volunteer delivering food for the food bank and gift project.
I first got involved with Getaway Girls during lockdown as a volunteer delivering food for the food bank and gift project.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
My current position is a young women’s worker with the Inspiring futures team. My role involves looking at young women’s goals for the future, supporting them in thinking about the next steps in terms of education, employment and training. I also facilitate the Dream it Real group sessions with the young women building their confidence and encouraging them to pursue their aspirations.
All the team at Getaway Girls are warm and welcoming. Meeting the young women and building relationships makes me happy. Seeing the women’s confidence grow is a wonderful feeling and the main reason why I love working for Getaway Girls.
What’s the best thing about your job?
In my spare time I enjoy the outdoors and being active. I am currently at University studying my post grad in Counselling and Interpersonal skills. I am optimistic and have a half glass full outlook on life.
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
“There is power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice.”
Michelle Obama
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I was introduced to getaway girls in 2001 during my secondary school days. I really employed being part of Getaway Girls as I felt excluded from other social interactions. Getaway Girls helped me to build up my confidence and give me some sense of belonging.
I was introduced to getaway girls in 2001 during my secondary school days. I really employed being part of Getaway Girls as I felt excluded from other social interactions. Getaway Girls helped me to build up my confidence and give me some sense of belonging.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
I am now a youth support worker at Getaways Girls,I support young woman, to develop new skills, encourage their aspirations, whilst providing support and guidance.
What’s the best thing about your job?
Coming back after all these years and now being part of the team is so refreshing for me. The staff are brilliant to work alongside, and the girls that attend are a lovely bunch. I hope I can make a difference in some way for the young woman here at Getaway girls.
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
I enjoy taking my dog Marlow for long walks. Writing and playing pool.
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
“Strong woman don’t have attitudes, we have standards” by Marilyn Monroe.
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
My journey with Getaway Girls started with me being there as a student on placement. Seeing the work Getaway Girls do firsthand allows me to see the impactful work they do. It sparked my passion for community engagement and youth advocacy. Now, as part of the team I am committed to empowering young women and fostering positive change.
My journey with Getaway Girls started with me being there as a student on placement. Seeing the work Getaway Girls do firsthand allows me to see the impactful work they do. It sparked my passion for community engagement and youth advocacy. Now, as part of the team I am committed to empowering young women and fostering positive change.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
As a Youth Support Worker, my role involves collaborating with the lead worker to facilitate various youth groups. I actively engage with young people and help create a positive and safe environment. Additionally, I handle administrative tasks to ensure a smooth execution of our programs.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is to see the positive impact the work we do has on the young individuals. I particularly love seeing them open up to new people and make friends.
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
In my free time you will most likely find me with my nose in a book. I love reading romance and fantasy books. If not, my second favorite thing is being active, whether that's going on a walk or going to an women's football group I attend.
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
"Women, they have minds, and they have souls, as well as just hearts. And they’ve got ambition, and they’ve got talent, as well as just beauty. I’m so sick of people saying that love is all a woman is fit for." - Lousia May Alcott
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I was involved with Getaway Girls when I was younger and now my daughters are involved.
I was involved with Getaway Girls when I was younger and now my daughters are involved.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
I am a Young women’s worker. I work with groups of women and girls as well as one to one sessions . The aim of all the work is to encourage and empower the young women to reach their own personal potential and to have new experiences with their peers, whilst they grow in confidence.
What’s the best thing about your job?
I am passionate about equality and fair treatment for all women and girls. I believe all people have the right to live in safety, free from harm.
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour, and some style”. Maya Angelou
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I got involved in getaway girls when I was 15 I started by attending the Cultivate project. After attending for several years I then became a peer educator supporting the young women in their groups and on a youth exchange to Dublin. I then did the youth work training.
I got involved in getaway girls when I was 15 I started by attending the Cultivate project. After attending for several years I then became a peer educator supporting the young women in their groups and on a youth exchange to Dublin. I then did the youth work training.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
My job is a young woman’s worker and involves supporting girls in groups including Proud to be mum group, 13-16 group , schools work and offering one to one support as a mentor.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The best thing about my job is I am able to meet a wide range of different young women and watch them grow and mature into womanhood, see them overcome challenges and be able to be themselves in a space that is fun & safe also realising many of the challenges they are facing they are not alone as many other young women are going through it too.
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
I am very passionate about family and togetherness. I want all the young women in my family to be great, strong and independent young women so I put a lot of effort into helping steer them in the right direction.
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
“Don’t settle for average. Bring your best to the moment. Then, whether it fails or succeeds, at least you know you gave all you had. We need to live the best that’s in us.” – Angela Bassett
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I first became aware of Getaway Girls and met Flavia when we were both members of the Leeds city Centre Ending VAWG Thematic group.
I first became aware of Getaway Girls and met Flavia when we were both members of the Leeds city Centre Ending VAWG Thematic group.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
My role as the Digital Media Worker includes working on the digital and social communications for Getaway Girls, managing partnerships and relationships with other organisations and businesses who want to support us, and running our voice and influence group Vocal Girls with one of our Youth Workers, Kemmi.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The team at Getaway Girls are the most supportive, uplifting women and make every day so much fun. But also getting to showcase all the amazing work that happens at Getaway Girls and building our relationships with our audience!
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
I'm so passionate about women's rights and gender equity, fashion and drawing, and spend my time outside of work on my fashion business and art,
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
I'm not sure who wrote it, but one of my favourite quotes is "Don't be afraid to be seen trying." I think it's such an important sentiment to have the confidence to start creating and doing the things you love, without being held back by the fear of what other's might think!
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I became involved with Getaway Girls when I was 17 years old, during this time I attended sessions, completed training, participated in performances and became a peer educator. I instantly enjoyed being a part of Getaway Girls because it was really inclusive, and it provided a safe space that uplifted young women. At 24 years old I then returned to be a volunteer in creative writing sessions, I did this whilst I was completed my undergraduate degree in Social Care, Justice and Recovery.
I became involved with Getaway Girls when I was 17 years old, during this time I attended sessions, completed training, participated in performances and became a peer educator. I instantly enjoyed being a part of Getaway Girls because it was really inclusive, and it provided a safe space that uplifted young women. At 24 years old I then returned to be a volunteer in creative writing sessions, I did this whilst I was completed my undergraduate degree in Social Care, Justice and Recovery.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
At Getaway Girls I am a Safe Space Practitioner. In this role I provide 1:1 and group work sessions for young women focusing on keeping safe, boosting their self-esteem and also reducing their risk of harm.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The best thing about my job role is the young women that I meet! Every young woman has their own unique set of dreams and goal, along with their own personalities, and I really enjoy getting to know their likes/dislikes and what their hopes are for their futures.
The team here at Getaway Girls also contributes to how much I enjoy my job! Everybody is friendly, supportive and understanding, we all celebrate each other's successes, and support is always available if it is needed.
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
In my spare time I enjoy going on long walks or runs in the outdoors, preferably somewhere that has nice views and a lot of green areas!
Something that I am extremely passionate about social justice and being a part of the push for change! This passion is what has directed my academic learning- my undergraduate and my masters- and has been instrumental in my desire to supporting young people to help them overcome the adversities and challenges they may face.
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
“If there was a wrong, if there is a lack of justice, and there is an inequality, then somebody needs to say something. And why not me?”- Meghan Markle.
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I started Getaway Girls as a young woman, I was involved in She writes where we would do creative writing, poetry & art to express ourselves. I then went on to Volunteer for Getaway Girls for a few years working across different age range sessions and within schools. Currently I am a sessional worker at Getaway Girls doing sports and music sessions.
I started Getaway Girls as a young woman, I was involved in She writes where we would do creative writing, poetry & art to express ourselves. I then went on to Volunteer for Getaway Girls for a few years working across different age range sessions and within schools. Currently I am a sessional worker at Getaway Girls doing sports and music sessions.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
My Job involves supporting and encouraging young girls and women to express themselves through music, sports & events. In our music sessions we do a variety of activities such as music production, lyric writing and DJing.
The best thing about my job is the amazing staff team & that I work with many young girls & women from different backgrounds & seeing the girls individual journeys and growth & knowing you can make a difference, I find my job very rewarding.
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
My hobbies are around being creative and expressing myself in different ways for example, poetry, creative writing, arts and crafts & up-cycling projects.
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
‘We are all stars but we must learn how to shine’- Marilyn Monroe
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I first came into contact with getaway girls through working as a complex needs worker for the women's lives Leeds project around 6 years ago. This was a catalyst that allowed me first hand insight into the amazing connections & impact getaway girls was having on Girls and young women in the local community.
More recently I have joined Getaway girls as a Therapeutic group worker and I am very much looking forward to this new role.
I first came into contact with getaway girls through working as a complex needs worker for the women's lives Leeds project around 6 years ago. This was a catalyst that allowed me first hand insight into the amazing connections & impact getaway girls was having on Girls and young women in the local community.
More recently I have joined Getaway girls as a Therapeutic group worker and I am very much looking forward to this new role.
What’s your job and what does it involve?
I am a therapeutic group worker for getaway girls. I will be running groups for 16-25 year olds around managing wellbeing and mental health.
The groups will focus on empowering girls and young women to manage their own wellbeing. The group setting will allow for Women & Girls to explore, create, reflect, build confidence and meet other girls and young women in a friendly, safe, and supportive setting.
I hope to inject lots of creativity and fun into the mix!
What’s the best thing about your job?
I am feeling very inspired to have recently joined Get away Girls as a therapeutic group worker and feel excited for starting the groups.
Getaway girls colleagues have been so welcoming, kind and supportive - the positive vibes & energy of the team is infectious !
#happydance
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
I have a passion for travel, music, art, sustainable fashion and love seeing live music, attending music festivals, & socialising with friends and family. I care about the environment and love to promote slow fashion through vintage clothing, up-cycling, repairing, re-using and shining a light on choosing sustainability over fast fashion. I love walking and exploring the coast and countryside and connecting with nature, my other passion is around women's safety and advocating and shining a light on ending violence against Women and girls.
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
''A Women in harmony with her spirit is like a river flowing. She goes where she will without pretense and arrives at her destination prepared to be herself and only herself"
Maya Angelou
I love the spirit of this quote by Maya Angelou and the strength it provokes around Women's spirit, self-acceptance & staying true to yourself and your true identity.
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I started as a freelance counsellor working with aged 16+ girls and young women. Whilst working here I also applied for the Complex Needs worker role that was advertised
I started as a freelance counsellor working with aged 16+ girls and young women. Whilst working here I also applied for the Complex Needs worker role that was advertised
What’s your job and what does it involve?
Both these roles involve working one-to-one with girls and young women to establish meaningful relationships, offer a confidential and supportive space and work through barriers.
What’s the best thing about your job?
The highlights for me include establishing connections with girls and young women and witnessing positive change.
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
I love to run and feel this is where I let go of stresses and do any planning that's needed. I am also a yoga teacher, and ensure I build time in for my individual practice.
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
“Each time a woman stands up for herself, she stands up for all women” - Maya Angelou
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I came across Getaway Girls website about six months before I got involved and was really impressed and thought I would love to work with them. To my surprise I was contacted by Flavia who was looking for a counsellor
I came across Getaway Girls website about six months before I got involved and was really impressed and thought I would love to work with them. To my surprise I was contacted by Flavia who was looking for a counsellor
What’s your role and what does it involve?
I'm a Therapeutic Counsellor with young women aged 16-26, I help to facilitate the process of self-discovery by exploring thoughts and behaviours. I create a safe place for each young woman to express themselves without fear of judgement. It is important for me to let them know that they are accepted and to give unconditional positive regards to the client.
What’s the best thing about your role?
The role of a counsellor can be challenging but very rewarding at the same time, I love to see the changes in the young women and I love when they start to take control of their lives. They reconnect with who they are and discover or rediscover their dreams and aspirations.
As they go through counselling sometimes I can see the physical changes - they look brighter, they are more relaxed and become more open. It always amazes me. It's not that everything is perfect when counselling finishes but they leave with more of an understanding of themselves and better ways of coping with the challenges in their lives.
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
I love to write and sing.
I do some drawing (not very good I'm afraid)
I also like to play the guitar (only for private entertainment)
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
"People will forget what you said,
People will forget what you did,
But people will never forget how you made them feel".
Maya Angelou
How did you get involved in Getaway Girls?
I'd heard about Getaway Girls before and the work they had done across Leeds so when I saw a job I was excited to apply
I'd heard about Getaway Girls before and the work they had done across Leeds so when I saw a job I was excited to apply
What’s your job and what does it involve?
My Job role involves the planning and delivery of groups for young women aged 8-25.
What’s the best thing about your job?
I would say that the best thing about my job is the girls and young women that we work with. Each young person is so unique, and I never get tired of hearing their stories. No two days are the same at getaway girls but that is why I love doing what I do. You never know what to expect but that's what makes the job amazing.
Hobbies / interests or what are you passionate about?
I love anything creative, Music, Acting, Drama and anything else that gives me that type of feeling. Aside from getaway girls, I'm a poet and a rapper and I perform across the country at a range of different events. I’m also very passionate about nature. I love hiking and walking and just being outside in general.
A quote from a woman who inspires You?
”It took me quite a long time to develop a voice. And now that I have it, I am not going to be silent“ - Madeleine Albright
Our trustees
We have a fantastic board of trustees, who provide valuable support and expertise.
Why did you become a Trustee at Getaway Girls?
I was aware of the good work that Getaway Girls undertook since the early 1990 and had been involved in partnership work with some events and residentials linked to my youth work job for another organisation. Then, I was approached in 2004 to become the Chair of Trustees by the then Director of Getaway Girls, who was a good friend and previous colleague. I was reluctant to begin with because I did not believe I had the skills and experience to take on such a role and responsibility. She was very persuasive, encouraging and supportive in informing me otherwise, so I accepted the challenge and have been involved ever since.
I was aware of the good work that Getaway Girls undertook since the early 1990 and had been involved in partnership work with some events and residentials linked to my youth work job for another organisation. Then, I was approached in 2004 to become the Chair of Trustees by the then Director of Getaway Girls, who was a good friend and previous colleague. I was reluctant to begin with because I did not believe I had the skills and experience to take on such a role and responsibility. She was very persuasive, encouraging and supportive in informing me otherwise, so I accepted the challenge and have been involved ever since.
What do you like about being a Trustees at Getaway Girls?
It’s a delight to see the transformation of the girls and young women who access the services, the 30 years of stories all point to amazing achievements throughout the years. It is fantastic to see the commitment and passion of the workers who support the girls and young women to recognise their own strengths and skills and use them to make a difference in their own lives. I find it powerful that Getaway girls has maintained its strong mission and remains committed to strong youth work values in the work being delivered.
What are your proudest of / achievements?
I’m not too good at shouting out about my own achievements, however over the years I would like to think I have helped make a difference in the lives of many young people. It always makes me smile when I see them as adults now with their own families and they say to me “Do you remember when…….” Plus, I have had two children of my own and as parent’s I think we all make mistakes in their upbringing, however I’m proud they have both turned out to be decent adults.
Day job / studying. I have a Masters in Youth & Community Development work, so most of my paid and volunteer work revolve around this background. I currently have 2 part-time day jobs, one at Shantona Womens & Family Centre in Harehills, the other for The Highfield Community Association in Keighley. In my spare time I also volunteer for a few other projects in West Leeds.
What do you like to do ?
I really enjoy going to listen to live music, theatre and comedy shows. Glastonbury festival is usually my highlight of the year. I’ve extremely lucky to get tickets most years. I also love getting in the pool with the Bramley Mermaids Club which brings women together for a creative swimming and water dance class once a week. The club meets to learn new routines inspired by synchronised swimming techniques.
Do you have a favourite quote from an inspirational woman?
There are so many by Maya Angelou however “Try to be a rainbow in someone's cloud.” stands out.
Why did you become a Trustee at Getaway Girls?
I was involved in the early days. I've always really believed in what we are trying to achieve here.
I was involved in the early days. I've always really believed in what we are trying to achieve here.
What do you like about being a Trustees at Getaway Girls?
I find out about all the amazing work they are doing.
What are you proudest of / achievements?
I love the way every girl and young woman who attends is respected and valued.
What is your day job?
I teach Health and Social Care at Leeds City College.
What do you like to do?
Walking. Cycling. Reading.
Why did you become a Trustee at Getaway Girls?
I believe in everyone contributing to making each other's life better, it enriches your own life and makes communities
I particularly chose GG because they are very proactive, contacting people to ask for what the girls need from a job to a building
I believe in everyone contributing to making each other's life better, it enriches your own life and makes communities
I particularly chose GG because they are very proactive, contacting people to ask for what the girls need from a job to a building
What do you like about being a Trustee at GG?
Working in a business environment for many years being a Trustee at GG is completely different, I am learning so much about other people's challenges, sometimes I can offer practical suggestions, other times a more experienced person is needed - but either way, I am always impressed by the achievements the group makes.
What’s your proudest of/ achievements at GG?
I will pass on my knowledge and experience to help others find their way into employment.
Hobby/ or something you feel passionate about?
I am very passionate about Arts and Crafts, literally all of them, I will travel miles to see an exhibition and I join groups to talk to people with the same interests. I enjoy the beauty in other people's creations, and I admit my own.
A quote from an Inspirational woman?
I'm afraid none come to mind, However, I genuinely live by the one below and think about it often. From it I take that change is a good thing and I embrace it.
If you keep on doing what you have already done, you will keep on getting what you have already got
I first got involved with Getaway Girls when I was a teenager as part of the summer programme. I was a sporty girl from a protective family in Harehills, and Getaway Girls provided me with valuable opportunities to try new activities, deepen my interests in sports, and have a productive outlet during the holidays, instead of being stuck at home! As my parents' trust in Getaway Girls strengthened, I was grateful to have my first trip away from home through Getaway Girls, which was incredibly empowering.
I now work as the Director of Sales for a local EdTech startup called Synap, and I'm still as sporty as ever! By having the exposure of visiting new places with Getaway Girls, I'm now confident with travelling as part of my sales role and speaking to new people. Getaway Girls also gave me the confidence to branch out and try new sports over the past 15 years, often by myself, because this passion has been nurtured through the multiple opportunities provided by Getaway Girls.
Getaway Girls has made a big impact on my life as well as so many others, which is why I decided to become a Trustee. There are many young women in our local community that need help, support, an outlet or an opportunity, and Getaway Girls provides all of these through the variety of programmes they provide. I love meeting up with the team and hearing about the work they do with young women - it's inspiring to hear how Getaway Girls go above and beyond, and consistently provide the care and love that makes a difference in young women's lives.
I first became involved in Getaway Girls as part of the Summer Scheme, where I took part in lots of fun activities and trips. As a quiet teenager, I was scared to come out of my comfort zone, but at Getaway Girls I always felt supported. Fast-forward a few years and my confidence has grown massively! I continued to be involved as a Peer Educator whilst I was at College and University, helping with projects on body image, diversity and much more. After qualifying as a Registered Nurse, I worked in the NHS and found myself in the middle of the Coronavirus pandemic – a time that taught us all the importance of sticking together.
Getaway Girls has also provided a platform for me to refine my public speaking skills through hosting various events and workshops. For example, I had the chance to host a livestream virtual event for International Women’s Day – Herstory in the Making, which was a massive success! I also now have a Global Marketing Master’s Degree under my belt, which has given me even more skills that will help me as a well-rounded Trustee.
I love everything that Getaway Girls stands for, and after being involved in various activities over the years, I felt that it would only be right to become a Trustee. This gives me the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the Getaway Girls mission, make strategic decisions, and have a positive impact on girls and young women.
The best thing about Getaway Girls is that everyone here is equally valued for their contributions; it’s great to work with such passionate people!
Why did you become a Trustee at Getaway Girls?
I had recently moved to Leeds and a colleague told me about Getaway Girls and suggested I go along with her to a Trustee meeting to find out more about the organisation and to see if I might be interested in helping out. That was nearly 20 years ago! I’ve been hooked ever since by the amazing work to transform young women’s’ lives.
I had recently moved to Leeds and a colleague told me about Getaway Girls and suggested I go along with her to a Trustee meeting to find out more about the organisation and to see if I might be interested in helping out. That was nearly 20 years ago! I’ve been hooked ever since by the amazing work to transform young women’s’ lives.
What do you like about being a Trustee at GG?
I work for a very large organisation (the University of Leeds) so I find the contrast with Getaway Girls really fascinating and I’m constantly learning from my interactions with the team. I also think it’s really important to support organisations like Getaway Girls which are doing such important work with long-lasting impact in the city. I hope my small contribution is making a difference where it’s most needed in our city.
What’s your proudest of/ achievements at GG?
Being involved with an organisation for nearly 20 years means you see lots of changes and sometimes there are difficult periods to work through. So I’m particularly proud of Getaway Girls for celebrating 35 years in existence and being as strong as I’ve ever known it - making an impact on the lives of many young women and making exciting plans for the future.
Hobby/ or something you feel passionate about?
I’m a big music lover, especially modern country/folk/rock. I like to follow less known bands and musicians and enjoy going to see them perform live.
A quote from an Inspirational woman?
Ruth Bader-Ginsburg “My mother told me to be a lady. And for her, that meant be your own person, be independent.”
Our funders
A massive thank you to all our generous funders, whose help make everything that we do to help girls and young women possible.
