VANESSA A ODURO: Executive Director and Founder of Incipient Minds:

A Masters Graduate in Anthropology has been a teacher and a youth inclusion project co-ordinator for a range of different international development charities. Both her working and social experiences have given Vanessa the privilege of working with some of the most charismatic and inspirational young people whom have inspired Vanessa to develop INCIPIENT MINDS.   "I believe that through exposing young people to cultures outside of their daily experiences we will be enabling them to engage and participate positively in community building.   In turn this will enhance their potential for the future both as citizens and as reliable and effective employees."

DENISE WELLINGTON: Secretary

A graduate in Housing with specific reference to the importance of community housing in challenging social deprivation.   With in depth experience and knowledge of youth culture, housing and education, Denise has worked in community housing for three years.   Originally from south London Denise understands the need for young people from disenfranchised communities to engage in volunteering opportunities. "I believe that through volunteering young people will gain a wealth of experience and skills which will benefit them both presently and in their futures.   Incipient Minds aims to promote volunteering across society; which will in turn create a pool of active and engaged citizens."

HOLLY PADFIELD-PAINE: Director

A law graduate with a specific interest in social welfare law and youth issues. As a volunteer panel member for the Youth Justice Board Holly has been able to see at first hand the potential consequences for young people when they are not engaged in education, training or employment, and how easy it is, at a young age, to enter the criminal justice system. "It is only through education, encouragement and a sense of pride and achievement that young people are able to realize their full potential. Unfortunately many are denied this and never fulfill ambitions and dreams. Incipient Minds hopes in some way to rectify this and to enable our young people to take pride in themselves and their communities'.

Aaron Evans - Board Member

currently a minister at a lively Pentecostal church in the Upper Norwood area. A Learning Support Assistant at a secondary school in London supporting students with learning, behavioural and physical difficulties. Aaron has over eight years experience, mentoring, supporting, teaching and offering guidance to the youth of the communities he serves. Whether in the classrooms, youth centres, as a motivational speaker and seminar host for various youth events/campaigns or even on the playing fields drawing on his knowledge as a former international athlete. This young man has endeavoured in various capacities to help our young people fulfil their potential whilst offering hope for a better tomorrow.

Lez Quinn - Board Member

FUTURE GOALS

•  To place 30 young people in professional work placements

•  To create a long term link with at least two inner-city secondary schools

•  To create and fund workshops designed to engage young people in various professions

•  Gain charitable status

•  Prepare for our fundraising ball to be held in October

•  Gain a pool of 20 work placements from a wide range of different professions

________________________________________________________________________________________

GOVERNANCE