A letter from our CEO
I am writing to let you know that after five and a half years as CEO, I have made the difficult decision to leave Bristol Women’s Voice.
It has been a joy and a privilege to have led the organisation during this time and an honour to have worked with so many wonderful women across such different communities, organisations and political administrations.
Together, we have raised the voices of women locally and nationally through engagement with policy-making and national consultations, achieving greater awareness and some change.
We campaigned for greater visibility of carers and safer streets for all. We have worked with inspiring women-led action groups to challenge the intersectional barriers to equality experienced by Disabled women, women from Global Majority communities and women over the age of 55.
We have collected small acts of resistance, painted murals, run exhibitions, made lanterns, held processions, developed intergenerational and cross-cultural connections, celebrated all of Bristol’s women at joyous International Women’s Day events.
It has also been challenging at times, and I have learnt so much during my tenure. During these times, I have been incredibly grateful for the support of a fantastic staff and volunteer team and board of trustees, and I thank members for their engagement, constructive feedback and support also.
I am now really excited to introduce our new Chief Executive, Nathalie Sherring who will start on the 18th May.
Nathalie started her career as a secondary teacher, but when she relocated to the UK from France she soon began working directly with and in communities on various projects. She started and managed a few Sure Start Children Centres across Dorset. She was also the CEO of Dorset Race Equality Council during which time, she volunteered with The Soroptimist International in Bournemouth and supported the rights of Women and Girls across the world.
When she relocated to Bristol, Nathalie joined BSWN and worked there for 4 years as the Regional Capacity Building Manager working with Black and Minoritised community groups across the South West. Nathalie and I will be working together, for 2 weeks, before I leave Bristol Women’s Voice in her capable hands.
On a personal note, I will be moving to Northern Spain, before returning to independent consultancy work in the sector where I will continue work to create change for great women’s equity. I look forward to watching Bristol Women’s Voice flourish, as it goes into the next chapter and will remain a firm supporter.
Please join Nathalie and I as we say both ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ at our next members’ event. Together, we can reflect on the Bristol Women’s Voice’s journey, over the last five and half years and the next exciting chapter.
Drinks and snacks will be provided at the evening event. Please sign up here and join us.
In sisterhood & solidarity,
Katy