Introducing one of our latest board members: Michelle Smyth!

I Have A Voice is thrilled to welcome Michelle, a senior public affairs professional with over 25 years of experience, to our board. Keep reading to learn more about Michelle.

💬 What motivated you to join the board of I Have A Voice?

“I’ve been very impressed with IHAV since I first heard Rebecca speak at an event in the House of Commons several years ago.  That motivated me to volunteer as a mentor, which has enabled me to engage with some fantastic young people whose drive and commitment are really inspiring (I’m still in touch with a few, which I love).  Becoming a board member was therefore a logical next step for me, allowing me to get to know the organisation more broadly and deeply, and to contribute further.”

🎤 What does ‘having a voice’ mean to you?

“‘Having a voice’ means recognising what your ‘voice’ could be and how to use or channel it to empower yourself or the community around you. I’ve been incredibly fortunate throughout my professional life to work for someone (a politician) or something (an organisation) that I believe in. The golden thread for me has been trying to bring about positive change, however small, to make a little difference in everyday life for someone.”

🌟 What do you hope to achieve as part of the board over the next year?

“To bring my 25+ years of experience in advocacy and influencing in Brussels and Westminster, my knowledge of the post-18 education sector (my day job), and my background in charity board governance roles to IHAV. I aim to work with Rebecca and the fantastic team to offer constructive challenge and support, aiming not only to maintain but also to grow IHAV further.”

🌎 What advice would you give to young people who want to get more involved in shaping society?

“Channel your interest and passion by exploring a range of options; there isn’t just one pathway to achieving your goals (be it personally or collectively).  Setbacks and disappointment will come, but dig deep, be resilient and keep going.”

📚 What’s one article, book or podcast that really shaped how you see the world?

“For me, it’s always been much more about the people I’ve met along my journey.  From the high school teachers that inspired me to learn foreign languages, and understand European history that sparked my interest in other countries, cultures and political systems, to the great campaigners I’ve had the privilege to work for such as the late Phillip Whitehead (former MEP and award winning TV producer) and the late Dame Sheila McKechnie who inspired me to develop my campaigning voice.”

After reading this, I am confident you share our enthusiasm about Michelle joining the board. She is a valuable addition to our board.