09/05/2026
✨Oxford University ✨MBBA
Yesterday, I delivered a presentation and joined a panel discussion at Oxford University for the Poverty Research & Advocacy Network.
It was refreshing to be in a room filled with academia, think tanks, local government, charities, and grassroots organisations, all united by a shared goal, reducing poverty and tackling social injustice.
I spoke about MBBA’s heart-led approach to wellbeing, mental health, and recovery, and our mixed-economy model designed to challenge systems that are no longer serving people effectively. The response was incredibly positive, and I was met with thoughtful questions during the panel, as well as kind feedback afterwards about the authenticity and passion of my delivery.
It was also a pleasure to share the stage with Vanessa Boon, “The Joyful Disrupter.” I’ve jokingly been called “the tiny disruptor” before, so I knew I would enjoy her energy. I also thoroughly enjoyed a powerful keynote from Angela Barca of the Women’s Budget Group, alongside many other thought-provoking presentations throughout the day.
I chose to speak openly about my mum’s battle with alcohol addiction, MBBA was designed with her in mind , and I’m glad I did. During the panel discussion, one attendee shared that they had grown up with a very similar experience, and that hearing it spoken about so openly within an academic environment gave them permission to acknowledge and share their own story too.
We must always show up as ourselves. Our stories are ours to share, and when shared with honesty and compassion, they have the power to shape futures, challenge stigma, and remind others that they are not alone.
