As a registered charity, we have a Board of Trustees.
Right now, we have our strongest and most skilled Board in the charity’s history, with experience in commercial business, fundraising, grant management and cross-sector partnerships, and young people. 

You can meet our board below – they share why they joined our board and why they are passionate about Mortal Fools’ work.
We are always open to new potential additions to our board, making connections and are working to improve our board’s diversity. If you’re interested in finding out more about Mortal Fools and would like to connect – we’d love to hear from you! Drop us an email via: info@mortalfools.org.uk

RICHARD WISE (CHAIR)

DR MARIE WILLSON

NIKKI BELL

​PARTNER AT RYDER ARCHITECTURE
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I joined the board of Mortal Fools as I am now at a point in my life where I would like to make a wider contribution to the community beyond my job and particularly supporting people who have significant challenges to overcome.

​The work Mortal Fools does resonates with me, as does their mantra that ‘The creative arts are at the core of everything we do and the use of theatre and drama can help people unlock their personal brilliance.

DEPUTY REGIONAL DIRECTOR DEPARTMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL TRADE IN NORTH EAST

​I was inspired to become a Trustee for Mortal Fools as I saw the impact that participating in MF's style of youth theatre has had on my daughter. It has been about much more than just fun and friendship, albeit a reward in itself, but through drama she has developed key life skills including commitment, teamwork, empathy, leadership and the ability and confidence to present. 

On a personal level, using my professional skills and knowledge for the benefit of others has been very rewarding as I have seen the charity grow over the past few years to be awarded North East Small Charity of the Year for 2018

FREELANCE FUNDRAISING & EVENTS CONSULTANT, TRAINER AND SPEAKER

I was drawn to Mortal Fools by their passion and drive to provide a function and outlet for north east children; exploring complex emotions and life situations through the power of theatre and encouraging creativity.

Kiz and the team are so dedicated to these children and the impact Mortal Fools can have on their later opportunities and confidence, and as soon as I met Kiz I knew this was the charity I wanted to lend my expertise to.

RACHEL PATTINSON

​RACHEL KYLE BARCLAY - ​

AMELIA DIXON
​(COMPANY SECRETARY)

MANAGER OF DIGITAL RESEARCH AND SOCIAL INNOVATION PROJECTS AT NEWCASTLE UNIVERSITY

I joined Mortal Fools as a Trustee and Director in 2018 as I wanted to give my time to help a small charity in the North East.

Mortal Fools’ work really spoke to me as I am passionate about the arts, and I know that the artistic and skills training that Mortal Fools delivers brings multiple benefits to children and young people, as well as the broader community.

PROGRAMME OFFICER,
VIRGIN MONEY FOUNDATION

​I joined the Board of Mortal Fools early in 2019. Becoming a Trustee is something I have wanted to do for some time but it took time to find the perfect fit – Mortal Fools is just that. 

​In both my personal and professional life I see the power of the arts; helping young people to find their voice, giving them a platform in which to share their passions and ideas for change, helping them to express emotions and find and grow their unique talents.

​APPRENTICE SOLICITOR, 
​EVERSHEDS SUTHERLAND

I joined Mortal Fools in 2013 as a performer in the youth theatre. In 2015, I was asked to take on the additional responsibilities of Stage Manager where I had my first insight into how the creative process operated behind the scenes. I subsequently supported in producing events, organising events, funding applications, funding presentations, budgeting, facilitating and even volunteering in the office doing admin.
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More recently, I have started as an Apprentice Solicitor, a 6-year programme in which I work on the job and get fully qualified in the process. The opportunity to join the board allows me to help shape the future of Mortal Fools and to stay connected with the company as I endeavour on a new journey. I am privileged to have been voted onto the board and I am excited for the insight that I bring to the table.