Meet The Team
Molly
Work Placement Officer
With a background in supported employment, I am really passionate about creating lasting opportunities for young people. I work closely with local employers to build meaningful partnerships and take pride in understanding and supporting the unique needs of the individuals who walk through our doors.
I enjoy networking and connecting employers with the skilled talent pool we support at Rise Up. Positivity and Humour is something I pride myself on, so there will never be an awkward silence. My pride and joy are my two wonderful pugs Peggy and Buddy and my lovely cat Zeus. I can guarantee if we have a conversation over 5 minutes long I will have mentioned them at least ten times.
lizzy
Youth Development Officer
My role is to support your journey into employment and help you meet your goals, whether that's finding paid work, improving your employability skills, developing your confidence in your next steps, or gaining work experience!
You'll have 1-2-1 sessions with me as often as you'd prefer, to work on your CV, interview skills and some jobsearching, or anything else that will support your journey. I'll also facilitate practical, face to face workshops to help you realise your potential and feel more confident entering the job market. I have a background supporting people with a range of barriers, including mental health, financial, housing, and social issues, into sustainable employment and I am very confident that we will develop a strong working relationship to meet your goals and create a future you are happy with!
I've just learned to crochet and I'm halfway through making a scarf, perfect for the upcoming Autumn season.
cody
Programmes and Partnerships Officer
As the title suggests, I am responsible for the planning and delivery of some of RISE UP's key employability programmes, and managing relationships with stakeholders and partner organisations.
I've previously worked in various roles within the charity and education sectors, including teaching secondary science, managing a mental health charity, and most recently setting up a new project at the University of Manchester Students' Union that provides basic needs support to students through a food bank, clothing bank, and financial wellbeing workshops.
Outside of work, I'm a huge fan of alternative music and musical theatre. I spent a lot of time playing in punk and alt rock bands starting from the age of 12, and I went to Edinburgh Fringe in August this year to perform in a comedy musical about a team of crime-fighting nuns (think Sister Act meets Charlie's Angels).
daniel
Programme Support Apprentice
I have first hand experience of applying for apprenticeships and I understand how they can feel difficult and sometimes overwhelming, especially when you are unsure where to start, how to stand out, or what employers are looking for. However, I believe that with the right guidance, encouragement and support, Young People can begin to see what they are capable of and move forward with more confidence.
My role at Rise Up is to help keep our programmes and support running seamlessly. I support the team with daily operations and administration to help ensure our young people are getting the consistent, high-quality guidance they need to thrive.
Kira
Head of Charity
As Head of Charity at Rise Up, I lead our strategic vision and our skilled, passionate team dedicated to creating meaningful, lasting change for young people. At the heart of my role is making sure young people have the opportunities, support and voice they need to thrive and shape their own futures.
I lead our operations, strategic partnerships, growth and development, bringing together the people, resources and relationships needed to turn our ambition into real impact. From building strong community partnerships to empowering our team and driving our organisation forward, my focus is on creating the conditions for young people to thrive, and ensuring that everything we do translates into better outcomes, greater opportunity and lasting change in their lives.
Having worked directly with vulnerable young people, including those with SEND, mental health challenges and those facing a range of social, emotional and other barriers, I have a deep understanding of the challenges that can prevent young people from reaching their potential. This experience shapes my approach to leadership and ensures that young people remain at the heart of every decision we make.
I spent 18 years living in Spain, and so I love the Spanish language, and all things beaches, tapas and sunshine.