This peer session is for existing and aspiring trustees and board members to come together to share experiences of diverse governance journeys. First up, we’ll address the questions people are reluctant to discuss: Why should you bother, especially if you won’t be paid for your time, and could be watching TV instead? And will your face fit even if you do decide to apply for Board roles? Plus as evolving social ventures how to attract and retain board members or trustees.

We will discuss how joining Boards helps both personally and professionally, and the wider opportunities that joining a charity or social enterprise Board can bring. We’ll cover the different ways that you can effect change, improve diversity and learn about different opportunities from organisations looking to recruit.

About Anj Handa

Anj Handa is the Founder of Inspiring Women Changemakers and has 17 years’ experience of Board participation. Currently, she is Chair of Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, Freedom Studios, and is an independent Governor of Leeds Arts University (where she is also the Equality & Safeguarding Lead Governor, Chair of the Search & Selection Committee and an ex officio member of the Renumeration Committee). Having completed the Institute of Directors Certificate in Company Direction and with training in charity Governance and the Nolan Principles, she has a wealth of experience and contacts to support both aspiring and experienced trustees.

About Nickala Torkington

Nickala is the Co-founding Director of Flourish Together who first got involved in steering groups and community groups in her teens. It wasn't until later, after accidentally ending up in the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise sector, she realised the power of strategic, community and corporate boards to influence change, amplify impact and support women and minority groups' views to be heard. She has sat on a range of VCSE boards, public sector steering groups and is keen to support women to understand how their role in public life is both needed and how accessing relevant opportunities creates win win opportunities, for talent development, improved services and communication, alongside inclusive communities, social impact and innovation.