Trustees
David Lyall
Chair
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David Lyall, Chair
I came to the North East in 1980 to study mathematics at Durham University and became totally hooked on the region, moving to Newcastle in 1989 and have lived here ever since. It’s definitely the best part of the UK!
There was a time when my life lacked purpose, but then I encountered Jesus through hearing a talk about his life, death and resurrection one evening at a Christian meeting, and decided to follow him. Caring for people on the margins is at the centre of this. I really enjoy the tremendously enriching experience of building friendships with people from different cultures and getting to know and love their sense of humour, food, music, dancing, history and way of life.
What motivates you as a Trustee?
In my role as Chair, I’m keen that we remain true to our initial motivation of showing unconditional care to people seeking asylum, refugees and migrants, empowering them to thrive in the UK. I’m also keen that we continue to diversify at every level of the organisation.
How do you relax?
I love playing, watching and talking about sport with my three sons, playing the piano, going for walks and cooking with my wife Jill, as well as reading history.
Sally Hamilton
Trustee
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Sally Hamilton, Trustee
Tell us a bit about yourself
I have a wide range of professional experience in the non-profit sector, leading teams, projects and developing policy and strategy in an International context. I now work for a local authority delivering on community safety objectives that aim to make Newcastle a safe city in which to live and work, whilst creating sustainable outcomes for communities. I came to Newcastle in 2019 to complete my Master’s in International Development and have lived here ever since.
I first came into contact with Action Foundation around 2020 at the time of the pandemic whilst volunteering for Care for Calais, delivering emergency support to refugees in the North East. My experience volunteering opened my eyes to the intersectional challenges faced by migrant communities.
What motivates you as a Trustee?
My compassion around social injustice and the prejudicial treatment of different categories of people has long stood. Having been born in Eritrea, raised in Saudi Arabia and the UK, I grew up in a multicultural environment shaped by people and cultures from around the world. This experience broadened my world view and gave me the understanding that, at our core, regardless of where we are from, we all desire the same things – to belong, to be safe and to matter.
The mission and values of Action Foundation to help those most marginalised in our society deeply resonated with me, especially the practical focus on inclusion. I therefore welcome the opportunity to give my skills, experience and passion to continue making a difference in the lives of those who are marginalised.
How do you relax?
I enjoy working out, going out to eat, and spending time with friends and family .
Gaby Mandell
Trustee
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Gaby Mandell, Trustee
I have almost three decades of experience in the non-profit sector, in staff and volunteer roles and in two countries. My studies included history, languages and law.
I came to Newcastle in 2000 to lead the umbrella organisation of an international non-profit — through its unique peace education programmes, CISV educates and inspires action for a more just and peaceful world. I am now Chief Executive of the Institute of Water, which supports the development of people working in the UK water sector, enabling members to reach their full potential to drive the sector forward.
What motivates you as a Trustee?
Born and bred in Toronto, I grew up in a multicultural environment, shaped by immigrants and refugees from around the world.
The shared values and commitment that brought Action Foundation into being resonate deeply for me. I have been part of numerous multi-faith advocacy and action initiatives to address key social justice issues.
As an adopted Geordie I have put down roots in Newcastle and am happy to support and empower newcomers to this wonderful community. It takes proactive and community engagement to move from diversity to inclusion and belonging.
How do you relax?
Along with my volunteer work, I love to spend time with family, participate in courses and development opportunities and am part of a lively wine group!
Rola Naeb
Trustee
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Rola Naeb, Trustee
Ever since I arrived in the UK in 2002 I have been fascinated by people’s experience of migration. This led to my research over the last 15 years into displaced people and their lives here. I had the privilege to support the Syrian Refugees Community in the North East and was presented with the BBC Look North ‘Angel of the North’ award for my work. My academic background means I have long been interested in the centrality of language skills to integration into British and European societies, supported by proper training of teachers and appropriate use of technology. I see language as fundamental to empowerment and intercultural understanding and obviously that’s a big part of Action Foundation’s vision too.
What motivates you as a Trustee?
I had already worked closely with Action Foundation over many years and what impressed me was the practical focus on making a difference in the lives of individuals, families and communities. Action Foundation’s culture and values were also a brilliant fit with my own and so when the opportunity came along to join the Board, it was an easy decision.
How do you relax?
I have two wonderful children who are a never-ending source of amusement and occasional challenge and am also very close to my wider family. I love to swim and have always had a passion for reading – fiction and non-fiction and books on nature and personal development. I love good food and cooking for friends and family.
Andrew Coulson
Trustee
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Andrew Coulson, Trustee
I was born in Gosforth and pursued a career in finance. I’ve been involved in the charity since the early days when I met our founder Julian Prior at a dinner and ended up doing some language teaching. It was my first experience of working with refugees and I enjoyed it so much that when I was asked to join the Board it was an easy decision.
What motivates you as a Trustee?
I loved the Christian ethos underpinning Action Foundation with the commitment to help those who are most vulnerable, bringing people on the margins of society into the centre. In my role as Treasurer, I have a particular responsibility to help ensure we are financially sound, since this underpins our capacity to demonstrate practical compassion and help towards refugees and asylum seekers.
How do you relax?
My work with Tyne Tunnel keeps me busy and I’m a youth worker at my local church. The regular interaction with young people is very rewarding and certainly keeps me young! I also take every opportunity to get out into the great outdoors, particularly for cycling and fell walking.