Tonic team update 🌈
We're pleased to announce the appointment of two new staff members, joining Anna Kear, CEO, in working towards making LGBT+ affirming retirement communities in the UK a reality. Both appointments will be in place by mid-August and we’re incredibly excited to have a team on board to increase our capacity! It’s going to be a busy few months for us as we hit the ground running, and we can’t wait to share more news, but more importantly, to meet you (socially-distanced of course!) to discuss more about Tonic and the exciting things we have planned for our community. In the meantime, read on to meet the new team.
Matthew Riley is joining as Communications and Marketing Manager, having previously worked at diversity and inclusion organisation, INvolve, where he developed the brand voice, helping position the organisation as a leader in the D&I field. Prior to this he worked in communications for a global fashion company, and as part of his Creative Direction degree, wrote about identity, and homophobia and racism within the gay community. He has worked closely with Terrence Higgins Trust as a supporter and was co-host of LGBTQ+ mental health podcast, Bottoming. With a creative background, alongside his experience in communications, brand management and marketing, Matthew will be working to raise Tonic’s profile and communicate the demand for community led provision.
Connect with Matthew.
Danny Hibbs-Woodings will be joining Tonic as Community Outreach Coordinator, after returning from a year in Cologne at an international translation company. Prior to this, he worked in housing management for Notting Hill Genesis, then moved to community work, where he helped the delivery of community-based events and consultations as part of the current NHG/Southwark Council Aylesbury Estate regeneration. Danny was the chairperson for the company LGBTQ+ network and an active member on the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Panel and also worked on initiatives to promote positive mental health of staff and residents alike. He has also worked closely with LGBTQ+ housing organisations such as HouseProud, as well as other charities seeking to support LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers arriving in the UK. Danny will be an ambassador of Tonic, meeting and engaging with our (future) residents, community groups, LGBT+ networks, and local authorities to raise Tonic’s profile and help bring our vibrant, LGBT+ affirmative community to life.
Connect with Danny.
