Meet our Trustees

A retired education consultant with extensive experience across Manchester, Salford and Trafford, Jo now dedicates much of her time to supporting charities and advising governments internationally on education policy and strategy. Driven by the belief that MYZ members deserve the very best, she is committed to helping young people make the most of every opportunity and build strong futures.

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Samuel supports Manchester Youth Zone because he has seen first-hand the transformative impact youth centres and trusted youth workers can have. Having attended MYZ with his brothers, he is passionate about ensuring more young people have access to the same opportunities and support. Beyond MYZ, he leads the charity Young Manchester, which funds and connects youth groups across the city. His advice: discover the world and be you.

Born and raised in Crumpsall, Yvonne is proud to give back to the North Manchester community that shaped her. As a trustee at Manchester Youth Zone, she is committed to helping create safe, inspiring opportunities where young people can build confidence and resilience. Outside of MYZ, she enjoys staying active and keeping up with her two energetic children. Her advice: don’t rush life — take your time and never be afraid to ask for help.

Simeon has been involved with Manchester Youth Zone for almost 10 years and is passionate about ensuring young people in North Manchester have access to life-changing opportunities. Having benefited from a youth group himself, he is committed to raising aspirations and inspiring the next generation. His advice to young people: give 100%, believe in yourself and always be kind.

Robert has lived in Manchester for many years, much of that time just down the road from Manchester Youth Zone. A proud father of two, he previously volunteered at MYZ and remains deeply passionate about supporting North Manchester. He works as Head of Current Accounts at Lloyds Bank and enjoys golf — as well as being a long-suffering Spurs fan. His advice to young people: find friends who truly have your best interests at heart and stand by each other.

As an elected councillor for the area, Joanne is dedicated to supporting Manchester Youth Zone and the valuable service it provides to the community. Focused on working closely with residents, community groups and local schools, she is committed to strengthening the area in every way possible. Her message to young people: you have more power than you might think.

As People Director at OnSide, Debbie sees first-hand the life-changing impact Youth Zones have on young people across the country. Proud to support Manchester Youth Zone, she is passionate about ensuring all young people have access to opportunity, support and a safe space to grow. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her two children and taking on new fitness challenges.

Gwyn lives close to Manchester Youth Zone and has seen first-hand the positive impact it has on the local community. An accountant by profession, she balances her day job with renovating a “project” house in her spare time. Passionate about helping the Youth Zone continue to thrive, Gwyn believes in working hard, doing the right thing and finding mentors who inspire you to believe in yourself.

Colin is CEO of Careermap Media Group and a lifelong North Manchester resident with a deep passion for inspiring the next generation. A proud father of two, he is committed to supporting Manchester Youth Zone as a trusted and vital community hub. Bringing innovation, ambition and a strong track record in youth engagement, Colin is dedicated to improving outcomes for young people — always asking, “How big would you dream if you knew you couldn’t fail?”

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