The Rise Foundation
supporting women's diversity throughout the workplace
Trustee
Sanchia Miller
Managing Director, Miller and Vincent Properties Limited
What would you like to achieve with The Rise Foundation?
I would like to network and speak at events to encourage and uplift women of colour to be and do all that they set their mind to.
What impact would i like The Rise Foundation to have?
I would like The Rise Foundation to positively impact every organisation and individual both locally and globally to smash that corporate glass ceiling.
Why did I become a Trustee for The Rise Foundation?
I became a Trustee for The Rise Foundation because the vision for the Foundation aligned with my own vision and values having transitioned from Corporate to business.
What advice do I have for Women of colour starting their career?
I would advise women of colour, who are starting their career, to pursue any role or position that they set their mind to with full confidence in their abilities.
Trustee (Marketing & Comms)
Natasha Johnson
EDI Officer, St Basils
What would you like to achieve with The Rise Foundation?
I would like to achieve a clear pipeline and platform, for WOC across all sectors to be able to thrive and reach their fullest potential, despite societal barriers.
What impact would i like The Rise Foundation to have?
I would like The Rise Foundation to go global, I think it is extremely important that WOC across the world, support each other and have access to that support and opportunities.
Why did I become a Trustee for The Rise Foundation?
Because of the sisterhood and willingness to build a platform for younger WOC coming up in the working world.
What advice do I have for Women of colour starting their career?
Don't give up some things that are meant for us do not always come straight away! If you have a vision in mind, never let anyone tell you, you can't or that you don't belong. You know what is best for you, shoot for the stars.
Advisory Board Member
Rita Patel Miller
Global Service Lead - Social Value
What would you like to achieve with The Rise Foundation?
To give women of colour confidence and motivation to reach their potential.
What impact would i like The Rise Foundation to have?
To create a community of support, encouragement and motivation to help each other to rise with pride and confidence.
Why did I become a Trustee for The Rise Foundation?
I strongly believe that there is need for this forum and focus, the numbers and evidence clearly demonstrate that women of colour are not equally represented at senior management and board level positions. We have so much to offer and celebrate those women that have reached their potential and be role models and advocates for the upcoming future talent pipeline.
What advice do I have for Women of colour starting their career?
Aim high, believe in yourself and don’t stand in your own way, take every opportunity and do not be afraid to positively challenge. When you reach the top , leave the door open and pull up the next woman, lead by example, continue to rise and help and coach others to follow and rise further.
Board Advisor
Pat Carvalho
Birmingham Metropolitan College
What would you like to achieve with The Rise Foundation?
The Rise Foundation? To support women of colour progress in their careers through mentorship, networking and CPD activities as well as support organisations/businesses looking to support their female employees' professional development and diversity initiatives.
What impact would i like The Rise Foundation to have?
To increase the number of successful promotions across different sectors for women of colour.
Why did I become a Trustee for The Rise Foundation?
I want to support other women of colour on their career journey and in particular those women who aspire to the most senior.
What advice do I have for Women of colour starting their career?
To be proactive about progressing your career. Take opportunities to develop yourself through CPD opportunities, seek mentorship and be part of networks such as the Rise Foundation that can offer you support, lived experience and guidance from peers, those who are already on their journey and women in senior roles. This does not have to be a lonely endeavour.