meet the team
Martin talbot
ceo
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I’m very proud to lead our wonderful charity and work with such a passionate and dedicated team of people. As CEO, my role is to ensure the Trust is in the best possible shape to help vulnerable young people who need us. This involves setting our strategic direction and supporting the team to deliver against it. I’m a firm believer in the professional and personal benefits of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and promote a culture of flexible working at the Trust to help bring the best out in people. I am also our Designated Safeguarding Lead.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
I’ve been really lucky to work in a range of brilliant organisations who are committed to using their reputation and reach to help support young people succeed.
I have over 20 years’ experience of working in youth engagement. This includes working within the youth criminal justice system, providing mentoring opportunities for young people in the City of London, as a founder member of the EY Foundation - an employer lead social mobility charity - and as Head of Programmes for the Liverpool Football Club Foundation, leading programmes in Liverpool and overseas.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
The concept! Imagine having a world class athlete in your corner, helping you to succeed. All young people are brilliant and have so much to offer, but too often their potential remains untapped. I’ve seen first-hand the transformational impact our athlete mentors have on young people’s aspirations and outlook.
Working with our athletes and staff is also an absolute pleasure.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself.
I represented Liverpool at chess and that’s as good as my sporting career got!
You can contact me on martint@damekellyholmestrust.org
jo mcdiarmid
Head of programmes, communications and marketing
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I am Head of Programmes, Communications and Marketing. I’m hugely inspired by the opportunities we create at the Trust, both for the world class athletes we help to channel their unique experiences from elite sport as role models and mentors; and for the young people who benefit from our programmes, who, despite the adversity they face, go on to confidently create positive change themselves. My role is to ensure we deliver the best possible experience for young people on our programmes, to tell their stories and raise awareness of what the Trust does and the positive impact we have.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
I’ve worked for most of my professional life in sport and wellness, creating campaigns and programmes which encourage an active lifestyle, empower people on a journey, and champion the experience of achieving their goals. Prior to joining the Trust, I worked on both a consultancy basis, and as Head of Marketing at a mass participation sports marketing agency, with organisations including Mayor of London, Major League Baseball, Comic Relief and Bath Rugby. I also provide marketing mentoring support to people launching small businesses and I’m a qualified Personal Stylist.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
I believe in the power of sport for change, and our athlete mentors are incredible! Using it to help future generations become the best version of themselves is really inspirational. Every young person I have met through our programmes has opened my eyes to their talent, their passion and their can-do spirit – they motivate me every day and I am proud to be a Champion in their Corner.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself
I was a UK Cheerleading Champion in my sporting heyday!
You can contact me on jom@damekellyholmestrust.org
annie moody
Head of Business Development
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I am the Head of Business Development at the Trust and oversee the Income Generate team. My role is varied (which I love), from bringing in new partnerships that truly believe in the work we do, supporting the development of the school and health care programmes and seeking new opportunities to see programmes thrive in different sectors to support more young people to have the best possible start in their life.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
I feel really privileged to have run my own companies for the past 20 years, gaining much experience in different industries. I started and managed an Interior Design company for 10 years, working in both the private and commercial sectors, followed by implementing Youth Development programmes, powered by sport, in state education settings. I am also the co-founder of a charity that drives awareness and supports research for people affected by Brain Tumours and a Trustee for Brave Mind, a mental health charity within rugby communities.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
I want to level the playing field and provide everyone with the same opportunities, wherever possible. Working for the Trust gives me a clear sense of purpose, knowing that we are making a real difference; turning our aims into action and supporting young people to unlock their potential and change their pathway into adulthood.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself.
In 2019, I was part of a team of 10 who became the 3rd and largest group ever to climb the ‘North Face’ of Mount Kilimanjaro, all reaching the summit. Not only did we raise £40k for charity but it is, to this day, the most incredible experience I have ever had; nothing will beat living above the clouds and watching the sun rise!
You can contact me on anniem@damekellyholmestrust.org
chloe Neilson hopkins
trusts and grants manager
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I am Trusts and Grants Manager at the Trust. My role involves finding trusts and foundations who have the same passion as the Trust for enabling young people living in disadvantage to fulfil their potential. I then put together a compelling case requesting their financial support to help make this happen. I then keep these funders updated on the difference their funding has made and the impact this has had on young people.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
I’ve had a varied career, starting with a stint in the travel industry which took me to a variety of incredible locations around the world, followed by several years in the events and hospitality sector. Ten years ago, I found my true calling and took up a fundraising position at my local Hospice. Since then, I have gone on to work for charities supporting young people with disabilities and additional needs and then adults and children living with sight loss.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
I love seeing the change in young people; how they grow in confidence and self-esteem. They stand taller at the end of a programme. Our athletes do an incredible job and its amazing to hear about their own journeys – they really are inspirational role models.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself
Hmm, during my time working in travel I spent two seasons working in Switzerland and while I was there, I took on the Swiss Alpine Half Marathon; I have a qualification in floristry and I love cooking (mostly) healthy food from scratch for my family – everyone needs a bit of cake, too!
You can contact me on chloenh@damekellyholmestrust.org
bev rigby
senior Finance Manager
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I work at the Trust as the Senior Finance Manager. I am responsible for ensuring the finances within the Trust are tightly managed and accurately reported by having effective processes and procedures in place.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
I have been working within various finance functions within a variety of organisations for over 20 years ranging from the Local Council, NHS to corporate IT companies. I decided that after having children, I wanted to leave the corporate world behind and play a part within a charity that helps young people.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
My role is not regarded as being front of house and in past roles, I have felt a real sense of disconnection between my job and the organisation. At Dame Kelly Holmes Trust I am able to see the difference we make to young people and the positive impact we have. This is truly heart warming and motivating.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself.
In my spare time I love playing and watching sports. I’m a keen netball player and partake in Pilates. I also enjoy watching Basketball, Ice Hockey and try to get to London to watch Arsenal as much as possible. My two children ensure any other spare time is well and truly taken up!
You can contact me on bevr@damekellyholmestrust.org
adam whitehead
Development and Curriculum Manager
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I’m the Curriculum and Development Manager at the Trust, which means I’m responsible for writing the content for the programmes we deliver to young people, as well as training given to the athletes. I often work across a number of teams and am involved in funding bids and new programme development.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
I retired from an international swimming career in 2006, during which I become both European and Commonwealth champion as well as competing at the Olympic Games. After retiring I spent some time in Sports Development and coaching. I have been involved with the Trust since 2008 and during that time I have had the opportunity to deliver the young people programmes, as an athlete mentor, as well as managing the team of athlete mentors.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
I love the team, how everyone is supportive and wants to change the lives of young people for the better. It’s amazing to be a part of that change and to see and hear the impact the programmes make for young people is incredible.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself
I was deaf until I was 3 years old and learnt how to speak by lipreading. Not interesting, for most people, but I love going carp fishing and spending as much time outdoors as possible.
You can contact me on adamw@damekellyholmestrust.org
Ali watson
insights and impact manager
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I’m the Insights and Impact Manager at the Trust. My main role is to measure the outcomes young people achieve on our transformational programmes, to evaluate what works well, and to help the Trust identify any areas for future development.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
I worked in banking and later as a university-based researcher before moving into the charity sector, where I’ve worked in a range of areas including homelessness, health and wellbeing, and drug and alcohol use. Before I joined the Trust, I was the insights manager for Manchester City’s community football foundation.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
I decided to work in charities because I wanted to help make a positive difference to people’s lives. I feel very lucky that my role enables me to meet the young people who take part in our programmes as well as the athletes who mentor and inspire them, and to see first-hand how they benefit from the work the Trust does.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself
When I’m not in the office you’re most likely to find me going to music gigs, taking photographs of street art, or playing a slot at a local vinyl night.
You can contact me on aliw@damekellyholmestrust.org
Ellis OliverProgrammes Manager - Education
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I am the Programme Manager (Education) and will be managing the programmes we deliver working with secondary school partners. I am driven to construct and manage programmes working with secondary schools to work with their students that aren’t fulfilling their full potential and provide positive activity including mentoring from elite athletes to inspire them to be a better version of themselves. My aims are for students to leave engagement with us with lasting memories, having had fun experiences and a more positive outlook towards their education and future career opportunities.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
I started my career in and around education as a physical education teacher for several years across schools in the East Midlands then West Yorkshire. Since then, I spent 8 years managing education programmes funded by the Premier League at the charity of Hull City Football Club, growing the programme across East Yorkshire to engage students in education interventions. I also managed a foundation degree programme working with the University of South Wales so have had oversight of both compulsory, further and higher education programmes. I also supported colleagues with their ongoing development through my role as training and development lead and I am looking to use my experiences to support wider colleagues at the Trust and our athlete mentors.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
Being new to the Trust I have lots to learn from all my colleagues and working with our network of funders. From what I have seen so far though it is great to work with a really close team and develop some strong relationships with schools and funders nationally. I am excited to see the impact and outcomes of working with schools and our athlete mentors over a prolonged period of time and how this invigorates the young people to be improved versions of themselves.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself
In 2020 I ran the London Marathon in a time of 3h35m49s not bad for a first marathon! I enjoy motorsport and regularly go to the British Superbikes with my dad and son and being one to challenge myself, this inspired me to complete my motorbike A licence which I passed in June 2024.
You can contact me on elliso@damekellyholmestrust.org
victoria baker
partnerships and business development manager
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I have the pleasure of building relationships with all of our partners to deliver powerful social impact with young people and the communities that need us most. From volunteer opportunities, to bringing our world-class athletes together with partner workforces, I ensure that we work together to benefit everyone. I also support with our variety of fundraising activity across the Trust.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
Prior to joining the Trust, I’ve been running my own company that helps protect founders from unethical coaching, I recently exited the business have been eager to join a cause that is creating a positive impact in the world.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
I’ve worked in the coaching and mentoring industry for many years and seen the profound impact it has on an individual’s life. I’ve seen people completed shift their way of thinking and have the confidence and motivation to go after what they really want. Unfortunately, due to the high cost of coaching, it’s mainly been reserved for those on a much higher income. I truly believe that young people need access to this the most, especially those facing challenges in their everyday lives. When I heard about the trust, I instantly knew this is something I wanted to join.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself.
In 2016 I launched an iOS app that gave users a series of light-hearted and funny questions to ask their friends and family and it recorded their answers to share on social media. Their videos were being shared across the UK/ USA/ Asia within a few months! Unfortunately, I was hacked 6 months later and lost the code.. but it was a great learning experience that I’m happy I did.
You can contact me on victoriab@damekellyholmestrust.org
pippa stott
partnerships and fundraising events manager
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I have the pleasure of building relationships with all of our partners to deliver powerful social impact with young people and the communities that need us most. From volunteer opportunities, to bringing our world-class athletes together with partner workforces, I ensure that we work together to benefit everyone. I also support with our variety of fundraising activity across the Trust.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
Prior to working at the Trust I worked in the events sector organising corporate days, graduations, roadshows and sports events. I also spent two years working in Hong Kong as a teacher. I decided to make the move into the charity sector and haven’t looked back since!
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
Having studied sport at University, I truly believe in the power that our athletes have to inspire others and support their health and wellbeing. Working for the Trust, I am lucky enough to see first hand the impact that our programmes have on young people across the UK.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself
I am an avid supporter of Warrington Wolves, Formula 1 and Liverpool FC. In 2022 I ran my first marathon, however I can more often be found as a parkrun tourist on a Saturday morning!
You can contact me on philippas@damekellyholmestrust.org
alex kurek
programme coordinator
What is your current role and what does it involve?
As Programme Coordinator for GOSH I will be supporting the set up of the new programme working with Great Ormond Street Hospital, I will work initially with hospital staff to promote the programme internally and in the future with the parents of patients who are referred onto the programme, matching them with an Athlete Mentor and ensuring they have a great experience.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
I worked for I worked for Badminton England, a National Governing body, for many years in both the development and performance team, before joining the Trust initially as a Programme Coordinator.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
We have a very dedicated team of staff and brilliant Athlete Mentors who really know how to get the best out of the young people we work with, and we are very lucky to be able to see the impact of our programmes at events and visits.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself
I am qualified personal trainer, but have only ever used it to work as volunteer with university sports teams, and I am a little bit rusty now!
You can contact me on alexandrak@damekellyholmestrust.org
ruth mwandumba
programme coordinator
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I am a Programme Coordinator, and I coordinate and develop the Trust’s programmes within the established Sheffield hub. I oversee the delivery of sessions, supporting young people across a range of education and community programmes.
What did you do before working at the Trust?
Before working at the Trust, I was working for British Shooting as an Engagement Manager for their ‘#TargetChange’ initiative, which aims to introduce a new audience into the world of Olympic and Paralympic shooting sports.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
I’ve always been passionate about helping and engaging young people in sporting activities, so I love that working at the Trust gives me an opportunity to explore these passions!
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself
I’m a current international athlete in the sport of Shooting, and I am on the British Olympic World Class Programme.
You can contact me on ruthm@damekellyholmestrust.org
michael stokoe
programme, Communincations and marketing coordinator
What is your current role and what does it involve?
My current role is Communications, Marketing and Programmes Coordinator. I’ll be helping the trust reach new audiences across our digital space, sharing stories of our wonderful athlete mentors, students, partners and programmes which the Trust runs. I’ll also be managing and looking after some of the programmes as well. It will be a busy role, but one I’m thoroughly looking forward to!
What did you do before working at the Trust?
Before joining the Trust, I spent over five years working for Welsh Cycling as their lead on communications and marketing and PR. The role was wide ranging, but highlights included working with elite athletes, working at the Commonwealth Games in 2022 and the UCI World Cycling Championships in Glasgow in 2023 among many other exciting projects and programmes.
What is it you love about working at the Trust?
I’m really looking forward to getting to know more about the amazing team behind the trust, meeting the athlete mentors who help deliver the programmes and seeing young people achieve their potential.
Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself?
I haven’t got an interesting fact about myself, but outside of work I enjoy watching and participating in sports and keeping active. I’ve completed a few half marathons but have now rediscovered my love for cycling and like to ride two or three times a week. I’m a big Crystal Palace FC fan, so during the season I like to travel to away games with my father and brother.
You can contact me on michaels@damekellyholmestrust.org