Our Trustees

HELEN LAIRD

Chair of Trustees

Helen Laird lives in Worcester, she is a committed, practising Christian, who has a passion for young people, and enabling them to be the best that they can be. Helen has been a youth worker for over ten years and currently works for The Worcester Diocese as a Mission Enabler with a focus on children, young people and families. Helen currently runs a youth group and is involved in supporting a number of young people at a local High School, with their intervention/mentoring programme.

JOHN HUNTER BROWN

Treasurer

John has worked in financial services for over 20 years, in both banking and the charity sector.  He strongly believes that everyone should be supported to achieve their potential and is inspired by the huge positive impact that Ignite has in the community.

His role is to work with his fellow trustees and the team on the numbers to ensure the charity remains on a firm financial footing.  He lives in Kent with his wife and their three children, and when he’s not trying to get the kids to places on time, finding or stepping on bits of Lego or acting as referee to any sibling disputes, he likes to try and cook!

EGO OBI

Vice Chair of Trustees, Trustee: Business Strategy

“We rise by lifting others.” Robert Ingersoll

As a Transformation & Technology Strategist, Ego is passionate about technology and its application to achieve global impact and practical transformation.

Over the last 20+ years, Ego has led several Technology Innovation initiatives across many sectors. Some of which include global Internet Infrastructure solutions in Emerging Markets; Mergers & Acquisitions Technology Integration strategies; Financial Systems solutions architecture and deployment

In her spare time, Ego is actively involved in coaching and mentoring programs with a particular focus inspiring underrepresented groups and is currently an Engineering Senior Program Manager at Google, based in London. 

NADYA ALLEN

Trustee: Youthwork

I’m a passionate youth worker committed to supporting all young people, with a particular focus on empowering young women, girls and those with Special Educational Needs. My time as a 'Girls’ Youth Work Intern' at Ignite enhanced my values, strengthened my understanding and deepened my commitment to youth work.

Now, as a Youth Support Worker at Tower Hamlets Council, I continue to advocate for young people, offering holistic support rooted in compassion and inclusion. My Christian faith inspires my practice, and I remain a proud advocate for Ignite’s impact.

Outside of work, I love to travel and draw inspiration from new experiences to enrich the way I connect with and support young people.

DAVID HERBERT

Trustee: Pastoral/Faith

I’m originally from East London and now serve as joint leader at Roxeth Community Church on the Rayners Lane Estate in South Harrow where I also live. I’ve always had a passion to see young people who find themselves overlooked, disadvantaged and dismissed, but who are often full or talent and potential, get the encouragement, support and chances they deserve. I love playing my small part with Ignite whose staff and leadership work tirelessly to make that happen.

In my free time I try and keep myself fit; I’m working my way through the library of classic literature left to me by my grandad (who I suspect used the books as ornaments rather than actual books), and trying to persuade my wife that burger, wedges and beans is a grown up, healthy and appropriate meal for a 48 year old man at least 4 times week.  

NIKKI PATEL

Trustee: Enterprise & Employability

I’m a higher education professional and Ignite Youth trustee, passionate about tackling inequalities and opening up opportunities for young people.

Born in Kenya, raised in London, and with maternal ties to India, I bring a multicultural perspective and a deep belief in the role of social work in advancing social justice. Based in Harrow, I’m committed to making a positive impact in the community I call home. I hold a Master’s in Positive Psychology and Coaching and truly believe in the power of coaching to change mindsets and unlock potential.

In my spare time, I love travelling and learning from new places and cultures.

LYNNE BURKE

 Ignite Ambassador

Lynne has been involved with the leadership of Ignite since it was established in 2001 and is a Human Givens psychotherapist who has worked with young people for many years.  Lynne is an experienced ambassador for the organisation who enjoys spending time with the team, stakeholders and young people. She is proud to work alongside a board of trustees who are committed to the mission of Ignite and invest their time and energy to ensure the sustainability of the organisation and grow its influence and impact.

DANIELLE PRICE

Safeguarding Champion

Danielle likes keeping fit, going to the gym and swimming. To relax she spends time with friends and goes back to Nottingham to see the family as often as possible. She also enjoys horse riding and trying out new restaurants. In addition to studying she is keen to use her experience in business management to help Ignite in its work with at risk young people.  Her passion is women’s rights.