Welcome to WISH Midlands

Senior Associate at Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP

Rose is a housing corporate governance solicitor who often works with housing associations and other community based organisations. Rose believes housing is one of the most important issues affecting communities across the country and the housing sector helps the most vulnerable in our society. While training to become a solicitor, she attended several networking events and found WISH to be one of the most valuable thanks to its relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

She said: “WISH encourages women to choose a career in the affordable housing and construction sectors and addresses career progression for women already in those sectors – all round good stuff!"

Lynn is a Director of the WISH CIC and a Board Member of WISH (Midlands) - she has over 20 years experience of working at Executive Director level within the social housing sector. within both the Local Authority and Housing Association sectors.  Lynn is also Non-Executive Director on an ALMO and a HA.  Lynn has a passion for tenant and employee engagement and advocates that the success of an organisation comes from its people.  Lynn is also a  qualified coach, holding a Post Graduate Certificate in Coaching Psychology.  Lynn runs her own company, Libra Coaching and Consultancy.

Olusola Jinadu (Shola) is the Member Experience Manager at the Chartered Institute of Housing. She has over ten years of experience working in membership services,  high-profile event management, systems developments, implementation and improving member value.

Based in Coventry, Shola joined the housing sector in 2015 on the back of great experiences from various sectors such as media, retail, customer service and IT. Shola is very passionate about championing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in the housing industry and beyond.

“I joined the WISH West Midlands Board because I am passionate about empowering women to succeed in every aspect of their lives.”

“I joined the WISH West Midlands Board because I am passionate about empowering women to succeed in every aspect of their lives. It is a great opportunity to network and further develop my ambitions. I would love to use my presence as a board member as a point of encouragement; you are capable, able and you can have it all”

Sophie Wells is a Board member for WISH Midlands and the Communications Specialist for Wolverhampton Homes. She's passionate about bridging the gender pay gap as the lead of their Age and Gender staff forum, who work on projects to celebrate differences, and empower women within the city. If she's not at work, you'll find her on her travels with friends and her new hubby. She's dog obsessed, a proud owner of the cutest golden retriever, a keen runner, wannabe cake baker and Wolves footy fan.

Janine has worked in anti-social behaviour for 13 years, managing community safety teams for councils and housing providers, and more recently holding the Managing Director role at a  national, profit for purpose organisation, which aims to develop and share best practice in tackling ASB.

Janine has won a number of awards for her work and has supported various Home Office departments and campaigns. She sits on several national policy forums and is often interviewed by the BBC on the topic.

Janine now provides support directly to her clients. She also delivers public speaking workshops and 121 support for people struggling with imposter syndrome type issues and low confidence.

She said: “I truly believe in the power of people supporting each other, for both personal and professional development. Women are so often fighting battles against their own lack of confidence and self-doubt and we need others around us to realise we’re normal and not let it hold us back!”

https://www.wishgb.co.uk/news/blog/when-looking-back-is-simply-the-right-thing-to-do

Community Housing Officer – Accord Housing

Kat started her Housing career in Customer Services for Citizen Housing and is now working as a Community Housing Officer for Accord Housing working directly with residents to assist with antisocial behaviour, tenancy issues and rent support. She is passionate about tenancy sustainment and supporting vulnerable residents.

After hearing about WISH whilst attending social networking events, she was keen to get involved and join a supporting and inspiring network of women. “I am thrilled to join the WISH Midlands team and be part of a network that encourages women’s involvement and development in the Housing Sector. I look forward to widening my current network and meeting other like minded women.”

Women empowerment is a huge passion of mine, therefore joining the WISH board is a natural next step in my career progression.

Having worked across the Criminal Justice System and Supported Housing for over a decade, I've developed an insight into the limited affordable housing options for prison leavers, which has ignited my keen interest in housing sector reforms.

In my spare time I enjoy going on city breaks, long walks and ferrying my 3 children to their many activities!

I look forward to making valuable connections and contributions with the WISH Midlands board.

Elaine leads on marketing and communications at Aspire Housing and its group businesses including apprenticeship and training provider, PM Training, community-based charity, Realise charity and shared ownership provider, Cerris Homes.

Based near to Aspire’s HQ in Newcastle-under-lyme, Elaine joined the housing sector in 2017 on the back of many years in IT and retail. On joining WISH Midlands Elaine said, “I’m delighted to be joining the WISH Midlands team, to help support women working in social housing. WISH offers something unique to women who want to reach beyond their current network and explore new opportunities in housing.

“I look forward to working with existing and new members in the Midlands region, where we have so much to showcase!”