1Can you explain your role in one sentence? I am the founder and manager of Safe Haven Basketball.

2Did you find yourself in this role by accident or design and how long have you been doing it? My daughter Grace has learning disabilities and is a passionate basketball player. When I discovered that there was nowhere in London where she could be part of a club, I couldn’t see any alternative to starting one up myself. So, in 2016 we had our first basketball session, and the club has been going from strength to strength since then.

3What’s the best part about your role? Definitely seeing the impact on our members and their families of finding a really inclusive basketball club where they can all have fun, gain skills and fitness and make friends. For me it is all about the young people and their families and getting to know so many of them over the years has been a real source of joy.

4What’s the most challenging part of your role? Over time there have been many, from finding the right coaches to raising enough funding. I would say that it really varies, but perhaps the one constant is making sure that I can find the support I need to keep the club running smoothly.

5What engagement have you received from local community stakeholders? We have had both financial and practical support from our local councillors and we have worked with schools and colleges in the area from time to time. Active Westminster have been really supportive since the beginning with expertise and connections which have helped us sustain our club. It's great to now connect with Marble Arch BID’s Community Programme to look at how skilled corporate volunteers and local businesses can contribute to Safe Haven, particularly to support our planning for the future. We also host competitions and events where we find it very helpful to have volunteers to help us to make sure that the day runs smoothly.

6What advice would you give others setting up a community project? I think that if you are aware of something missing, something that is needed by you and the people you know, then don’t over-think it. Get started and you will find that the community you plan to serve comes together to support what you are doing for them. It is hard work, and time consuming, but if you have energy and time, this is all you need and the rewards are enormous both personally, and for others.

7What do you like about the local area?The local area is so vibrant and varied. I find it constantly stimulating to be around so many different cultures. We also have the beautiful canals and buildings and parks, and a fantastic mix of old and new which make it a very special place.

8What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?Safe Haven is what I do with my spare time!

9If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?I would go back to Japan, where we lived for 8 years, and travel around the country more than we were able to when we were raising our children there.

10Who is your hero and why?I can’t possibly narrow it down to one hero! There are so many people to admire.