My interest in Kairos Women+ was fired by its aim to be a safe space for women, developed and led by those who use it.

I began volunteering with Kairos in early 2018, and enjoyed the collaborative way of working and organising activities. I experienced how a community led approach brought a more inclusive atmosphere and wider range of activities. I’ve been Chair of the Board since January 2021.

I retired, in 2010 after more than 38 years teaching in primary schools in Glasgow and Johnstone.  I was a Head Teacher for 17 of those working years, latterly in West Johnstone.

I loved the schools where I worked and the people, of every age, that I met along the way. Many were inspirational and I learned so much from them all.

At Kairos Women+ I continue to learn new skills whether it is at Creative Café, Kairos Kitchen, at the Paisley Museum and history groups or from the great, local women who come to the weekly Drop-Ins.

I come from a family of radicals, where evenings and weekends were spent fundraising or taking part in campaigns to change the inequalities in our society.

My commitment to the peace movement included as a committee member of Teachers for Peace. I was a local and national representative in the EIS, my trade union, where I chaired the Women’s Committee at a national level.

I believe we all have our part to play to eradicate racism and inequalities and encourage diversity and the richness it brings to humanity.

The work of the Equalities Committee and the array of training opportunities available to Kairos volunteers, gives me a chance to challenge my opinions and listen to, and explore other views. The non-judgemental approach helps support such understanding.

Like most women and non-binary people, I have had many caring roles including some time as a single mum and at present as carer for two elderly relatives.

I also love the ’Arts’ in all its forms and I’m delighted that Kairos Women+ sees the value of creative expression. The Kairos Chronicle showcases the talent we have around us and our podcast A Brew and A Blether is a welcoming place for our volunteers and supporters to exchange ideas and opinions.

At time of writing, we are in Lockdown 2. Oh, how I am looking forward to seeing the faces of friends and family, walk on beaches and hillsides and, perhaps, see Venice again. The thought of sitting, with others, in a room or theatre enjoying a play or music and poetry fills me with joy.

My world is rich in interests, experiences and love. I want us all to have equal opportunities, to grow, to explore who we are and to value each other- to love, laugh, flourish together.