Staff

I’ve been involved in youth work for 10 years, studied Psychology at university, and am currently working towards becoming a counsellor.

In my spare time I love a wild swim – a morning sea swim is my favourite Christmas tradition.
I recently took up Salsa dancing, so watch out for me on Strictly sometime, and I’m a strong believer that there’s a Swiftie inside of everyone, you’ve just got to find the right song.

I've been part of the team since 2016, originally overseeing the work of Romance Academy, but moving into the Luton team in 2017 in order to have more face-to-face time with young people. Before arriving at Youthscape, I led a mentoring charity in London having completed a degree in Youth Work and Ministry from Oasis College, London. I love seeing churches come together to make a difference in the lives of young people so I coordinate Luton Unite, a local network that does exactly that. You should also know that I am the proud owner of Colin the camper van, my faithful travelling companion across the UK. Everybody needs to have a friend.

I graduated with a Theology and Youth Ministry BA (Hons) from St Mellitus College in 2018 having done part of my placement here at Youthscape. I want to see how the Church can make a real and lasting contribution to education both in the curriculum and across the whole school community. I lead our 'third space' work finding creative ways to engage students in places like school atriums, the dinner queue and unloved school corridors. In my previous role here I led SchoolsworkUK, organising training for hundreds of youth workers wanting to develop their skills for work in a school setting In my spare time I love being creative; whether it's making music, videos, or doing graphic design. I also love Ultimate Frisbee.

Working with Compass, our NEET (Not in Education, Employment or training) Intervention Programme, I get to help young people realise their full potential no matter what they’re going through. It also means I’ve been on survival school training several times so I know how to skin a pigeon and I’ve got certificates in bushcraft and wilderness living. Important office skills. My degree was in sport and physical education so I’m also a qualified basketball and football coach, a fitness fanatic you might say. When I’m not at Youthscape I love writing, dancing, spending time with my young son, and serving in my local church with my husband. Oh, I’m half Swiss and my middle names are Elsa Olive.