Our Trustees

David Woollcombe

David led Peace Child International for 35 years as CEO, directing over 60 major productions and projects around the world. As President, and now as Chairman of the Board, he is intent to use his global contacts to ensure that the organisation moves to a new generation of leadership, equally committed to the central role that young people can play in our world.

Rory Copeland

Rory is a solicitor who helps financial technology companies to offer innovative services to consumers. He is passionate about helping people in developing countries to save and send money in a safe and reliable way, and is on the editorial team of the Business and Human Rights Review. In his spare time, Rory enjoys running and singing (although not often at the same time).

Hortense Julienne

An Events Manager and Fundraiser with experience in the charity sector and a passion for working with disadvantaged communities, Hortense volunteers for homeless organisations. She published a recipe book for Food Bank users called ‘The Bank Cook’, distributed to food banks across the country and featured in the Times. A self-confessed foodie, she is the founder of Miss Nang Treats and in her spare time, Hortense can be found in the park - running 5K and 10k for charity or fun!

Olivia Hutchinson

Olivia is a policy professional currently working in the UK civil service. She has an MA in Russian Studies and is currently studying for an MSc in Conflict, Security and International Development. She is passionate about tackling global inequality. In her spare time, she enjoys playing music with friends.

Joanna Mobed

Joanna is a lawyer specialising in international energy and infrastructure projects. She has over ten years’ experience working with diversity and education-focussed charities, both in the UK and abroad. Through her role as a lawyer, she is involved in several mentorship schemes for aspiring solicitors from ethnic minority backgrounds. Joanna was President of the Cambridge Union Society (the world’s oldest debating society) and a member of its board of trustees.

Vinod Tailor

Vinod Tailor MBE is the former High Sheriff of Bedfordshire and a Deputy Lord Lieutenant. He has a business background and has worked in 32 countries. He is a Fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Bankers and Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments. He arrived in Luton with his family in 1972 as refugees from Uganda and is tireless in his charitable work, dedicated to giving back to society, especially to numerous voluntary organisations in Bedfordshire.

Viji Underwood

Viji is an experienced professional specialising in commercial banking and credit risk with experience implementing strategy to internationalise commercial banking. Post university, she worked as a Field Officer on a government led poverty alleviation project in Sri Lanka where she is now a member of a bio-diversity action plan. Viji has an interest in environmental, gender and youth development issues. As a part of a committee, Viji mentors undergraduate women to help them prepare for their careers.