Meet the Trustees
Sharon De Leonardis - CEO
Throughout her career to date, Sharon De Leonardis has been successful in working for a number of branded retail businesses and managed all aspects of their functionality from business development and branding, budget management, people management and promotional event management.
With a passion for the Arts, and having a focus on supporting the local community, Sharon successfully set up the 2step Dance Company in 2006. Her energy, enthusiasm and support for young people has paid dividends - a number of her dancers have gone on to have very successful international dance careers.
Dapo Labinjo - Finance Manager
Dapo is a CIMA qualified Finance Director, with over 15 years experience within Financial Services, Commerce and Not for Profit sectors.
Moving to Bedford in 2014 has been an opportunity for Dapo to return to his roots, having been a former pupil at Bedford School in the early 90s.
His various interests include sport (especially Rugby and Football), music (where he is a worship leader at his church) and is a big fan of salsa dancing.
Ian Lawrence
Ian is a Social Worker by profession and currently manages a team serving people with learning disabilities and physical disabilities. Ian came to Social Work after previous careers in agriculture, sales and youth work.
Ian has a special interest in mental health, the adult impact of childhood trauma (particularly around bullying) and complex neurological conditions. Ian blogs as The Samurai Social Worker and is very active on Twitter @PositiveSimply and @samuraiworker.
Jenny Lawrence - Operations & Project Manager
Jenny comes with a depth and breadth of experience, having worked in the Private, Public and Charitable sector. In the Private Sector, Jenny worked with both new businesses and established organisations - helping develop strategy, improve operations and change management.
In the Public Sector, Jenny helped develop policy in Adults and young people transitioning into Adult Services. Jenny has experience of fundraising and programme management within the charitable sector - and celebrates having designed and produced an Intergenerational Music & Dance Show - showcasing ballet and tap dancing - at the Bedford Corn Exchange. This was filmed live by the BBC.
Vicky Ann Stephenson - Administration & Community Engagement
My name is Ann (Vicky), a St. Lucian born female who immigrated to the UK at the age of 9. I have worked in many roles throughout my career and have extensive experience of working in partnership and in the wider community both statutory and voluntary sector. In my personal life, I am a Wife, Mother and a Foster Mother.
My work has led me to have a great interest in and understanding of the importance of diversity within communities and engaging in work which encourages change and community cohesion. I have a credible background in Anti-Social Behaviour, CAF Referrals/Signposting, Victim Support, Risk Assessment, Safeguarding, Restorative Justice Process and Behavioural Mentoring.
Jemma Edie - Marketing
Jemma is a qualified project manager and marketing specialist with over 15 years’ experience.
For her, SpectaculArts is a fantastic way to give back to the community by shining a light on all that makes Bedford great.
Amy Washington
Amy Washington is a qualified level 3 personal trainer, Level 1 England Boxing Coach and has been in the fitness industry for 4 years.
Amy has over 20 years experience in the events industry and has passion and drive for her community to bring diversity and equality together through the arts.
Amy has worked in events all over the UK as well as Sydney Australia as the Assistant ticketing manager for a 13000 seater venue. She also has worked the Beijing 2008 Olympics.
Amy loves the ethos and community drive that SpectaculArts brings to Bedford and is proud to be part of a team with passion and commitment to make a change.
Amy Washington is a qualified level 3 personal trainer, Level 1 England Boxing Coach and has been in the fitness industry for 4 years.
Amy has over 20 years experience in the events industry and has passion and drive for her community to bring diversity and equality together through the arts.
Amy has worked in events all over the UK as well as Sydney Australia as the Assistant ticketing manager for a 13000 seater venue. She also has worked the Beijing 2008 Olympics.
Amy loves the ethos and community drive that SpectaculArts brings to Bedford and is proud to be part of a team with passion and commitment to make a change
Carmela Martiello - Community Engagement
During my career I have worked in various sectors from banking, retail and recruitment.
For the last several years I have worked in a further education environment in a pastoral and supportive role overseeing over 200 students in my daily routine.
I feel that education and being able to be part of the young person’s learning process has provided a lot of challenges but also successes, seeing a young person develop their skills and techniques ready for the next stages of their learning or working experience.
I am Bedford born and feel proud of the town and community we have which compliments well with my work with SpectaculArts’ aims and long term goals going forward.
I look forward to developing further community links and being able to discuss projects with individuals and groups which will benefit the community as a whole, highlighting diversity and understanding cultural backgrounds of Bedford town and beyond.
Photographs & Biographies for the following team members to follow:
- Carla Headman - Events & Fundraising
- Sofia Martiello