With over two decades of experience in charity leadership and the education sector, Sarah’s career demonstrates a deep commitment to equity in education and a passion for championing young people. She has an impressive track record in growing and improving programmes, measuring impact, and building strong relationships, alongside experience in fundraising and operational delivery. Her leadership is firmly values-driven, focused on progress, inspiration and creating environments where every student can thrive.

Sarah is a strong advocate for lifelong learning, believing that curiosity and creativity are essential for both personal and societal growth. She is dedicated to leading diverse teams rooted in equity and inclusion. Beyond her professional life, Sarah enjoys performing with her local amateur dramatics group and has a love for swimming, cooking, reading, and spending time outdoors with her husband and beloved dog.

Nicola joined the team in September 2024 having most recently worked for three years as a school business manager in a state sixth form, a role in which she was responsible for many of the non-teaching parts of running a school including finance, funding applications, an expansion project and estate management. Prior to this Nicola worked for many years in finance leadership roles in the corporate sector.  During this time, she organised work experience for pupils from local schools, a hugely rewarding experience which led to her interest in education and her change of sector. Nicola is a chartered accountant.

Don is a freelance governance consultant and trainer who provides a variety of support services to charities, local authorities and other organisations. He has a wide background in finance, politics and administration. He has held several senior roles in the finance sector, and most recently was Head of Operations for the Centre for Governance and Scrutiny charity. Throughout his working life Don has undertaken community and civic roles. He was a councillor and deputy leader, and Cabinet Member for Finance & Corporate Services in the London Borough of Bexley. He was a Governor and then Independent Chair on the Audit Committee at Rose Bruford College of Theatre and Performance. He was also a member of the court of the University of Kent and served as a magistrate on the South-East London Bench for 17 years.

Ekaete joined the Foundation in December 2025 to lead its new student opportunities programme, bringing over 15 years of experience in education and youth development. She began her career as a secondary school history teacher, going on to serve as Head of Sixth Form and later as Education Programme Manager at the Royal African Society. Alongside these roles, Ekaete has designed and delivered a range of online courses and educational resources focused on African history, culture and identity; supporting schools and families in deepening their understanding of the world. Her work has consistently centred on inclusion, representation and expanding access to enriching learning experiences. Ekaete is passionate about connecting students to meaningful opportunities that help them imagine and build ambitious futures.