Club: Ronin Grappling – Glasgow, Scotland South
Belt: Purple
I am standing for the role of Equality and Welfare Officer because I believe in building a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community rooted in fairness, opportunity, and wellbeing for all.
As a BJJ event organiser, policy contributor, and national safeguarding trainer, I’ve worked hard to promote safe, inclusive spaces in our sport. My experience leading the creation of sport-specific safeguarding training for the UKBJJA, and shaping council reform proposals that prioritise regional voice and diversity, means I understand both the strategic and practical needs of our community.
In my role as a trade union official, including time as Vice Convener of Equalities for the Educational Institute of Scotland (EIS), I’ve worked directly with employers and government to develop and enforce equality policies that have real-world impact. I’ve advocated for marginalised groups, led training, and supported individuals facing discrimination and wellbeing issues – experience I will bring directly to the Equality and Welfare Officer role. I understand the systems that promote structural change, and the importance of listening to voices that are too often unheard.
As Equality and Welfare Officer, I will be a strong advocate for inclusive practice, robust safeguarding, and meaningful support – from policy to person.
Let’s build a UKBJJA that reflects the values of our sport: resilience, respect, and community.
Thank you for your support.
Qualifications/ relevant professional experience
- BSC (Hons) Computing Science
- PGCE Secondary Education
- 8 years as Regional Director for Scotland and Safeguarding lead for the UKBJJA
- 21 years as a Secondary teacher in Scotland
- 15 years as union rep
- 10 years as national council member for the EIS
- 3 years as Vice Convener of Equalities for the EIS
- 22 years training in BJJ and 20 running tournaments in Scotland