Hello, I’m Alona, and I’m the Chair of Somerset Youth Theatre.

My job as Chair is to help make sure SYT is well run, so that Selina, Jo and the team can get on with the best bit (working with you).

I’ve always loved watching performances and had a go at writing plays, taking part in improv and performing when I was growing up, getting involved with my local youth theatre group. It’s where I met my best friend, and more than 40 years later we’re still best friends. So I know first-hand what a place like SYT can give you, and it isn’t just the shows.

I’ve worked in marketing and communications for about 30 years. In plain English, I help people and organisations say what they mean, clearly, so that people listen. I’ve been a leader at some of the UK’s biggest charities, and I’ve been a trustee at Stand Against Violence, a charity that works with schools, young people and adults to prevent violence.

I live near Bridgwater and am Vice Chair of Pride in Place Bridgwater South, which is a big pot of money for Hamp and Westover, which local people get to decide how to spend. I’m also involved with Bridgwater Arts Centre.

I believe the best ideas often come from the quietest person in the room. My job as Chair is to make sure there’s always space for them, and that when young people speak, grown-ups listen (and do something about it).

I’m really proud to be part of SYT.