Credibility, compassion and real change

Some leaders are shaped by position. Others by purpose.

Dame Robina Shah leads with compassion, courage, and deep humanity guided not by status, but by a lifelong commitment to inclusion, kindness, and the power of community.

Her journey begins in Manchester rooted in community, shaped by culture, and inspired by her parents’ belief in the power of unity to understand, uplift, and inspire others. That belief became her life’s purpose: to help build systems of care that truly serve those too often overlooked.

For over 30 years, Robina has reshaped how we think about education, health, and justice always placing people before policy. She has championed the rights of disabled children, influenced national NHS strategies, and driven meaningful change across academia, sport, and public life.

She became the first woman of colour to serve as the High Sheriff of Greater Manchester and was appointed Deputy Lieutenant in 2006. In 2023, she was honoured as a Dame Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for her services to patient care. In 2025, she joined the Board of Directors at Oldham Athletic (2004) Association Football Club Limited, bringing her values of inclusion and community to the heart of football and youth opportunity.

But ask Robina what matters most, and she will tell you: “Helping people feel seen, valued, and heard.”

As the founding Chair of The Dame Robina Shah Foundation, she brings more than experience, she brings her whole self: warm, wise, and steadfast in her belief that every young person deserves a fair chance to thrive. She is deeply committed to working in partnership and collaboration, ensuring that young people are not just supported, but empowered as co-curators, co-designers, and co-leaders in shaping their own futures.

We are proud to be guided by a leader who reminds us that kindness is strength, and that lasting change begins with empathy, trust, and shared hope.

Aaron Saxton is the Chief Executive Officer of the Dame Robina Shah Foundation (DRSF), where he leads the charity’s strategic vision to support disadvantaged young people through education, mental health initiatives, and by promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. A passionate advocate for social justice and disruptive learning, Aaron brings over 20 years of experience in education, technology, and community development. 

Aaron has a proven track record of designing and delivering award-winning education programmes that empower individuals and transform lives. As the Director of Disruptive Learning at University Academy 92 (UA92), he has pioneered innovative approaches to learning that have received national recognition from Ofsted, the Department for Education (DfE), BCS, and CompTIA. 

Born and raised in Manchester, Aaron was the first in his family to attend university. His personal journey fuels his commitment to breaking down barriers and widening access for underrepresented communities. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with partners such as Manchester United, JD Sports, THG and the FA, and major digital employers to co-create impactful programmes that reach those most in need. 

At DRSF, Aaron leads on strategy, partnerships, and programme delivery, working with schools, grassroots organisations, and the wider community to ensure every young person has the support, opportunity, and confidence to thrive. 

Dan leverages his expertise in technology to advance the charity’s mission of empowering disadvantaged young people through education, mental health support, and initiatives promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

As the Managing Director of W Web Design & Hosting, a web agency based in the North West of the UK, Daniel has built a successful business, delivered over 150 websites and helped clients thrive in the digital space. His journey in technology began as an apprentice, and his hands-on experience has fuelled his commitment to innovative solutions that drive positive change. 

In 2019, Daniel collaborated closely with Dame Robina Shah during her tenure as High Sheriff of Greater Manchester, serving as a key contributor to the launch of the “Team High Sheriff” program. As the program’s web master, he built and maintained its website, which provided a vital platform for young ambassadors aged 15-25 to amplify youth voices, foster community cohesion, and address issues like mental well-being, education, and employment. 

Driven by a deep passion for technology and education, Daniel is dedicated to guiding students toward paths that align with their strengths and aspirations. He was honoured to join the Dame Robina Shah Foundation, where he continues to open doors and create opportunities for underrepresented young people to succeed. 

Wayne brings extensive expertise in education, elite sport, and youth development to support the charity’s mission of creating opportunity, inclusion, and positive life outcomes.  

Wayne is the Head of Education for the England Men’s national football teams, where he leads on academic provision and welfare support for players with their respective age groups. He previously oversaw education programmes for players at Manchester United academy in their Full Time Training Model and scholars. His current role ensures that young athletes continue to thrive academically and personally while on international duty, balancing performance demands with holistic support across safeguarding, identity, and welfare. 

A qualified teacher and former senior leader in the education sector, Wayne has also held prominent roles with national awarding organisations, including Pearson, where he oversees quality assurance as a Senior Standards Verifier for sport-based qualifications. His work champions academic integrity and accessible learning for all. 

Wayne’s passion lies in using education as a vehicle for empowerment, particularly for young people navigating complex systems within sport and society. Through his work with clubs, schools, and governing bodies, he advocates for equitable support systems that recognise both talent and potential beyond the classroom or pitch. 

Having grown up in Greater Manchester, Wayne is committed to giving back to his community and helping shape a generation of young people who feel seen, supported, and inspired to succeed. 

Stephen Turner, founder of Group55 Limited, overcame significant challenges to achieve success. Growing up in an economically disadvantaged household, he faced numerous obstacles. His severe dyslexia made school particularly difficult, but he persevered. In 1999, Turner founded Group55 with just £700. Initially focusing on ecommerce and fulfilment services, the company helped brands navigate the digital economy. 

Recognising the potential in the pet care industry, Turner launched Animology, a brand that disrupted the market with innovative products. As Animology’s success grew, Group55 expanded into private label manufacturing. In 2017, Turner established Group55’s own manufacturing facility and under his leadership, Group55 has become a leading UK manufacturer in personal care, pet care, and home care products. 

Meredith brings over two decades of hospitality experience to his role as Area General Manager for Hilton’s Sports Hotels in the UK. Known for his approachable leadership style and deep operational expertise, Meredith oversees a dynamic portfolio that includes Hilton London Wembley, Hilton Southampton – Utilita Bowl, Hilton at St George’s Park, Midlands Conference Venue – The National Football Centre, Hilton Garden Inn Silverstone, Hilton Reading, and Hilton Woking 🏨

Meredith’s passion for hospitality and team development has earned him several accolades, including Hotel of the Year 2024 and Commercial General Manager of the Year 2023. These awards reflect not just strong performance, but a genuine commitment to creating memorable guest experiences and fostering a culture of excellence 🥇

A proud graduate of Cardiff University / Prifysgol Caerdydd, Meredith has held leadership roles across Hilton properties in Bath, Bristol, Newport, Dublin, and London. He’s especially proud of his time at Hilton London Metropole when he hosted major groups during the Olympics 2012 – the largest hotel in Europe, during the biggest event in the world. Also significant was opening Hilton London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5, the UK’s first Hilton franchise, where he led a large team and helped shape the hotel into a leading business destination.

Beyond his professional achievements, Meredith is deeply committed to community service and continuous development. As the chair of governors at Yateley School, he is dedicated to developing leadership skills and supporting educational initiatives. He has also made significant contributions to London’s Community Kitchen, and supporting various charitable organisations.

Few people embody leadership, resilience and inspiration quite like Denise Crosswaite. With over 18 years of senior leadership experience in the retail sector, Denise has built a career defined by unlocking potential in people, driving transformation, and building high-performance teams that deliver results while helping individuals thrive.

Currently Head of Branch at John Lewis & Partners Cheadle, Denise leads one of the UK’s most iconic retail destinations with vision and energy, balancing strategic foresight with operational excellence. She is known across the John Lewis Partnership for her ability to lead through change, empower others, and foster collaboration, all while delivering both people and business outcomes.

But Denise’s impact goes far beyond retail. A natural mentor and motivator, she has dedicated much of her career to developing tomorrow’s leaders, always believing that investing in people is the key to long-term success. It’s this philosophy that everyone deserves the chance to feel confident, valued, and inspired that guides her work with the Dame Robina Shah Foundation.

Abigail Irozuru is a British Olympian, motivational speaker, certified life coach, and MBA candidate at Alliance Manchester Business School. A former elite long jumper, Abigail represented Great Britain and England from 2006 to 2022, culminating in finalist appearances at the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games, World, European, and Commonwealth Championships. Her athletic journey, marked by injury, retirement, and a remarkable comeback, has become the foundation for her mission: to inspire and equip individuals and organisations to thrive through change with resilience, joy, and purpose. 

Now retired from professional sport, Abigail channels her Olympic mindset into empowering others through keynote speaking, coaching, and leadership. She is the Vice President of Academics at Alliance MBS, a board member for Greater Manchester Moving, and serves as Vice-Chair on the Athletes’ Commissions of Team GB and UK Athletics, advocating for athletes on and off the field of play. 

A certified NLP practitioner and life coach, Abigail specialises in mindset transformation, resilience-building, and high-performance coaching. She has mentored female entrepreneurs, small business owners, and athletes, drawing on her deep understanding of neuroplasticity and compassion-based therapy to help others rise and thrive. 

Abigail is also a published writer and contributing author to Notes on Feminism, where she explores the unseen realities for women in sport. Her work has appeared in HuffPost, Woman Alive, and other platforms. Outside of work, she enjoys podcasting, bouldering, and studying French and Italian. 

Whether speaking to corporate teams, student groups, or leadership cohorts, Abigail brings an authentic, energetic presence that leaves audiences inspired and equipped with practical tools for growth. 

Raabiyah is a Clinical Pharmacist and Independent Prescriber with experience across general practice and community pharmacy. She specialises in supporting patients with complex health needs including cancer, cardiovascular disease and mental health – always with a focus on safe, inclusive, and patient-centred care.

She has led impactful projects improving the safe use of high-risk medicines, reducing inappropriate prescribing, and empowering people to make confident, evidence-based decisions about their health.

Beyond her clinical practice, Raabiyah was a BMJ Clinical Champion, designing and delivering educational programmes that translate evidence into real-world improvements for healthcare professionals. She is also passionate about mentoring, supporting pharmacy colleagues, and working collaboratively with GPs, nurses, and allied health professionals.

As a former Team High Sheriff Ambassador for Health, Raabiyah inspired young people to value their wellbeing and see health as the foundation for opportunity and success. She is now building on that legacy as a trustee of DRSF, where her energy, professionalism, and vision will help us open doors 🔑🚪 for young people through health, education, and opportunity.

✨ “I am honoured to join the Board of Trustees at the Dame Robina Shah Foundation. Having served as Team High Sheriff Ambassador for Health, I saw first-hand the difference it makes when young people feel inspired, supported, and empowered to lead healthier, more confident lives. I am passionate about mentoring and creating opportunities for the next generation, and I am excited to continue this journey with DRSF.”

Still in her twenties, Raabiyah embodies the values of DRSF – integrity, service, and empowerment. Her passion, energy, and professional expertise make her an inspiring role model for the young people we support.