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At Patchwork Foundation, we believe that talent is everywhere — but opportunity is not. Too often, financial pressures or geographical distance quietly close doors that should be wide open. The Patchwork Access Bursary exists to change that.

Made possible through the extraordinary personal generosity of Sir Simon Fraser GCMG — a founding trustee and now Patron of Patchwork — the bursary is a dedicated, means-tested fund providing real, practical support to programme participants who need it most. Sir Simon personally funds the bursary in full, ensuring that no one who earns their place on a Patchwork programme is prevented from making the most of it.

This year, 21 participants on our Masterclass programme are already benefiting — and that support will soon extend to participants on our Get Involved party conference programme later in the year.

Whether you’re travelling across the city or across the country, we want to make sure you can show up fully — and focus on what matters.

If you are currently on one of our programmes and would like to find out whether the bursary could help you, please get in touch with a member of the Patchwork team.

Because the hardest part should be earning your place — not finding a way to be there.

Patchwork Foundation Announces New Chair and Vice Chair

Jonathan Freeman MBE to assume Chair role in January 2026; Patchwork alumna Makedah Simpson appointed Vice Chair with immediate effect

The Patchwork Foundation is delighted to announce the appointment of Jonathan Freeman MBE as Chair of Trustees and Makedah Simpson as Vice Chair of Trustees.

The Foundation wishes to thank Farmida Bi CBE, founding Chair of Patchwork, for her exceptional leadership and dedication over many years. Farmida will continue to support the organisation in her new role as Patron. The Foundation also extends warm congratulations to Farmida on her recent appointment to the House of Lords.

Jonathan Freeman MBE, currently Chief Executive Officer of the Charity for Civil Servants, will assume the role of Chair in January 2026. Jonathan’s appointment marks a homecoming of sorts, as he has been involved with Patchwork from its inception, providing crucial guidance during the charity’s registration process and contributing to its strategic development since the Foundation’s establishment in 2012.

Jonathan brings extensive experience across the charitable, private and public sectors. He founded and led the CareTech Foundation, the leading corporate foundation in the social care sector, and previously served as Managing Director of Mosaic, then HRH The Prince of Wales’s mentoring charitable initiative. Before moving in to the charitable sector, Jonathan served as a Senior Civil Servant in a number of government departments.  He was awarded an MBE in 2021 for services to the community. 

Makedah Simpson assumes the role of Vice Chair with immediate effect. A graduate of Patchwork’s 2017 Masterclass Programme, Makedah has been a trustee of the Foundation since 2021, embodying the organisation’s mission to support young people from underrepresented communities in engaging with British democracy and civil society. She has played a significant role in the Foundation’s work, including co-presenting the prestigious MP of the Year Awards at the Palace of Westminster in 2018.

Makedah currently works in the public sector. Her journey from Masterclass participant to Vice Chair demonstrates the transformative impact of Patchwork’s programmes and her commitment to creating opportunities for the next generation.

Sajidah Patel, Chief Executive Officer of the Patchwork Foundation, said: “I am delighted to welcome both Jonathan and Makedah to their new roles. Jonathan’s longstanding connection with Patchwork, dating back to our very beginning, combined with his exceptional leadership across the charitable sector, makes him ideally placed to guide our strategic direction. Makedah’s journey from Masterclass graduate to Vice Chair is testament to the power of our programmes, and her insights will be invaluable as we continue to expand our reach. I look forward to working closely with them both as we enter this exciting new chapter for the Foundation.”

Jonathan Freeman said “In an era of profound change across our democratic institutions and deeply worrying levels of disengagement and disenchantment of so many young people in many communities, Patchwork Foundation’s mission has never been more important.  It is a deep privilege to have been appointed as Chair of Trustees.  My fervent hope is that I can help the charity to continue to inspire young people to channel their talents and desire for change in positive ways for the good of all society.”

Makedah Simpson said: I am deeply honoured to be selected as the first Vice Chair of the Patchwork Foundation, an organisation that has profoundly impacted my career. My appointment is a testament to the charity. Having started my journey with Patchwork as a Masterclass participant, I continue to be grateful for the opportunities and community that Patchwork provides and wish to use my role to inspire and support others. I look forward to continuing to work alongside the Trustee Board, the executive team and most importantly, Patchworkers. 

The Patchwork Foundation, established in 2012 and registered as a charity in 2018 (charity number 1177576), works to promote active participation of young people from disadvantaged and minority communities in British democracy and civil society. The organisation runs flagship programmes including the Masterclass Programme, which connects young people with senior political figures, internship placements, and the annual MP of the Year Awards ceremony at Speaker’s House in the Palace of Westminster.

Representation and Purpose: Lessons from Myles Stacey OBE

I’m a third-year Politics and Sociology undergraduate at the University of Leicester, with a strong interest in public policy and social change. My studies have deepened my understanding of how political and economic systems shape everyday life, and I’m particularly drawn to exploring how policy decisions can improve social outcomes. Through the Patchwork Foundation Masterclass Programme, I’ve been inspired to pursue a future career in the Civil Service, where I hope to contribute to policymaking that reflects and serves diverse communities. Reflections from the Masterclass We recently had the privilege of hearing from Myles Stacey OBE, former Special Adviser to the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street. His reflections on leadership, identity, and service offered valuable insight into what it means to make an impact from within the heart of government. Two key themes stood out to me throughout the session, the importance of representation and the power of purpose. Together, they have shaped my understanding of what it means to create change with authenticity, purpose, and service to others.

Representation:

Myles’s journey from a working-class background to advising two Prime Ministers was a powerful story of representation and perseverance. He spoke about being the only Black advisor at the time, and how that shaped his motivation to create opportunities for others. What struck me most was his approach to representation not as a label, but as an active responsibility. He worked to make political spaces more inclusive and to ensure that people who are often overlooked were not only seen but valued. During Black History Month, he played a key role in broadening event invitations at No.10 to reach new audiences, demonstrating that genuine inclusion takes courage and intention. Hearing him speak reminded me that representation is not just about visibility; it’s about creating belonging. It’s about using your position to make sure others feel they can belong there too. His story encouraged me to think about how, in my own journey, I can help open doors for those who might not yet see themselves in certain spaces.

Purpose:

Alongside representation, what stood out most was Myles’s focus on purpose knowing why you do what you do. Working under two different Prime Ministers required adaptability and confidence, but what guided him through change was a strong sense of values and a belief in meaningful service. He spoke about the importance of “backing yourself,” of trusting your instincts even when things feel uncertain. His reflections made me think about how purpose acts as a compass in leadership, it keeps you steady when the landscape shifts. Myles also shared thoughts on the rise of artificial intelligence in government decision-making, noting that while technology will continue to evolve, human qualities like empathy, intuition, and emotional intelligence will always remain essential. That point resonated deeply with me. It reminded me that leadership is not only about skill or intellect, but about connecting with people, understanding their experiences, and acting with compassion. His advice about recognising “who holds the gates” was another powerful takeaway an encouragement to understand the systems around us, but not to be defined or limited by them. Instead, we should learn how to navigate them with self-belief and purpose, creating opportunities for ourselves and others along the way.

Takeaway:

This session reminded me that representation and purpose go hand in hand. Representation ensures that diverse voices are included, while purpose ensures that those voices are used to create meaningful change. Myles Stacey OBE’s reflections reminded me that progress is not defined by status, but by authenticity, service and the commitment to open doors for those who follow.

A Note of Thanks:

A heartfelt thank you to Myles Stacey OBE for sharing his journey and insights with such humility, and to the Patchwork Foundation for continuing to provide spaces where young people can learn, reflect, and grow. This Masterclass left me inspired to lead with intention, stay grounded in my values, and continue striving to build spaces where everyone feels they belong.

Following Your Convictions: Lessons from Sir Oliver Dowden’s Masterclass

Arya Nikam is a Politics and International Relations student at Royal Holloway University of London. Having interned at the House of Commons and worked as a Support Worker for people with learning disabilities for four years, her passion lies in  advocacy and championing the voices of those who are often unheard or overlooked. She is the President of her Politics and IR society at university and takes part in Model UN during her free time.

Discovering that the former Deputy Prime Minister went to the secondary school ten  minutes away from my house was a delightful discovery when I went to the Patchwork Masterclass on September 3rd. Sir Oliver Dowden, not only served as Deputy Prime Minister from 2023 to 2024 but also held various ministerial positions under the Conservative government alongside being the MP for Hertsmere since 2015. Our masterclass involved asking Dowden a series of questions ranging from the biggest challenges he faced whilst being in government to the green belt and the housing crisis. 

 From an external viewpoint, Dowden’s progression within his career seems to be the standard journey into politics: studying Law at Cambridge University, becoming a researcher in a political advisory firm and then making his way into the Conservative party and rising through the rankings. However after talking to him and gaining an insight into his life I realised the decisions he made to get to where he was today were not as straightforward as depicted; rather a series of choices that meant relying on your instincts and trusting your gut.   

In fact, a word I noticed Sir Oliver often repeating during the session was “convictions” – he truly emphasised the importance of being bold and trusting your own ambitions and dreams. This notion was something that was particularly memorable and rather touching for me to hear. As someone who has lived most of their life in a state of flux – I’ve always been unable to decide whether I should follow my dreams and ambitions or choose a career that I know will guarantee me stability and reassurance (something particularly important to me and most people my age in this current political climate and pressing uncertainty in the job market). However, hearing Dowden’s words of wisdom was incredibly reassuring – especially knowing that he himself turned down a prestigious career in law due to the fact that his heart was not in it. And from that he managed to have one of the most politically diverse and interesting careers. 

Towards the end of the session, Sir Oliver Dowden mentioned a phrase he had picked up when he went to Japan to teach English for a year, it was something along the lines of “If you have to pick between two paths, always pick the harder option”. This stuck with me after the masterclass, as I realised that Dowden was not just talking about careers but also our general lives and the decisions we all have to make to progress within society. I’d like to say a big thank you to Sir Oliver Dowden for answering all the questions submitted by the Patchworkers and for inspiring us all not only in regards to answering our questions but also for reminding us to be bold and daring, particularly in the world of politics.

Overcoming Adversity: Insights from Nadeem Javaid’s Masterclass

Anthony Braganza is a Data Engineering graduate of Generation UK and Ireland, with a strong interest in using data science to address social inequities, enhance community development, and encourage reform. Prior to studying, Anthony had volunteered with various youth-focused charities in the UK, supporting initiatives around homelessness, mental health, food poverty, tech literacy, financial literacy, and more. They have also interned on projects aimed at promoting healthy and sustainable eating habits among young Londoners. Motivated by a desire to create meaningful change, Anthony joined the Patchwork Masterclass Programme 2025 to gain a deeper understanding of the systems shaping communities today.

 Attending the Masterclass with Nadeem Javaid MBE was a defining moment for my cohort and myself. Mr Javaid shared a candid account of growing up in Walthamstow in a single-parent household, attending a school with limited resources, and balancing work alongside his studies while facing financial uncertainty. His experiences shaped a commitment to community engagement and social mobility that has guided his career.

What struck me most was his message of turning adversity into purpose. Despite early struggles, he persisted in his studies, ultimately earning a Computer Science degree from Georgia State University. This drive carried into his professional life, including roles in charity, non-profit organisations, and Sadiq Khan’s mayoral campaign. His journey demonstrates how authenticity, resilience, and dedication can transform personal challenges into impact for communities.

Championing Communities and Leadership

Mr Javaid emphasised the importance of listening to communities, amplifying unheard voices, and consulting the right stakeholders. His projects, from integration initiatives in London to campaigns celebrating multiculturalism, illustrate how leadership extends beyond policy to making people feel seen and valued.

He also addressed the challenges of navigating spaces where imposter syndrome can be prevalent, often being one of few leaders of colour in rooms filled with business executives and politicians. By recognising his purpose and prioritising the voices of young people, he turned self-doubt into confidence and influence. His dedication to holistic wellbeing, exemplified through marathon training for charity and promoting wellness among youth, reinforced that leadership is consistent action, not just a title.

Reflections and Takeaways

Nadeem Javaid’s journey, from local beginnings to receiving an MBE for community cohesion, reaffirmed the power of resilience, lived experience, and purpose-driven action. The Masterclass reminded me that contributing to communities, understanding diverse perspectives, and staying grounded in values are not only inspiring ideals but practical strategies for creating lasting change.

Thank you

I would like to sincerely thank Nadeem Javaid MBE for generously sharing his journey and insights, Patchwork for creating a space for young people from diverse backgrounds to engage critically with leadership and social impact, our session chair for guiding the discussion thoughtfully, and my peers for their thought-provoking questions that enriched the conversation.

Behind the door at No 10: A masterclass with Helen Lederer CBE

​​Edyta works at Starlight Children’s Foundation, a UK charity dedicated to ensuring no child suffers trauma from their healthcare experiences. This role is part of a Charity works leadership development placement, through which she gained interest in public policy, children's healthcare and EDI. She graduated from the University of Essex with a BA in International Relations and Modern Languages. During her studies, she completed an internship at the Polish Embassy in Paris and UK Data Archive, and volunteered as a Climate Educator for Young Climate Warriors. The Patchwork Programme now gives her a unique view into British politics, offering an angle she never imagined she would see.

Like many of my fellow Patchworkers, I am interested in a career in public service, a profession we view not merely as a job but as a calling driven by purpose. A recent masterclass with Helen Lederer, kindly hosted at 10 Downing Street, offered us an honest and invaluable insight into the realities of leadership and the principles that underpin a fulfilling professional life within the Civil Service.

From Private to Public

Navigating a career transition can be a daunting and risky endeavour, but a conversation with Helen Lederer revealed that it can also be a profound journey of self-discovery and purpose. Her shift from the private to the public sector after 25 years was not just a change of job, but a reorientation of her professional identity. Lederer explained that while she was successful in her private sector roles, it wasn’t until her transition to a position at No. 10 that she gained a new perspective on professional fulfilment. From this vantage point, she realised that her skills were now serving a purpose far greater than commercial gain, and she could clearly see how her previous work environment’s focus on profit and competition had, at times, overlooked the vital importance of diversity and inclusion. This transition was not merely a change in job title but a profound reorientation of purpose, as she articulated how her role, while a small part of a vast machinery, allowed her to contribute to something greater than herself. This realisation – that her work was for the benefit of people – became the core motivation she found lacking in the private sector.

The Commitment to People: EDI

A central and recurring theme was Lederer’s profound dedication to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). As a recipient of the Order of the British Empire for her exemplary work in this field, her insights were invaluable. She rightly pointed out that while both the public and private sectors have much to learn from each other, the goal of inclusion, regardless of the sector, is to attract and retain the best possible talent. Her perspective on fostering inclusive environments is not merely a professional strategy but a personal ethic. This resonated with me deeply, particularly in my own experience in the charity sector. As a recent entrant to this field, it has become apparent that there is a significant lack of diversity at the leadership level, often failing to mirror the communities it serves. To hear her speak from years of experience with such genuine conviction was incredibly encouraging. She underscored the vital point that true leadership extends beyond technical skills. It is fundamentally about fostering a culture where every individual can thrive and contribute their full potential. This is a principle she lives by.

I extend my sincere gratitude to Helen Lederer for her candid and insightful masterclass. The session was a rare opportunity to peer behind the curtain of government, and my fellow Patchworkers and I are immensely grateful for the insightful conversation and willingness to reveal a glimpse of a world few get to see.

Inside Downing Street: A Masterclass with Helen Lederer CBE

Ethan James is a Politics and Philosophy student at the University of Birmingham with a keen interest in the intersection of justice, equality, and identity and how these foundational philosophies shape decision-making within our society. He is a passionate advocate for educational equality, firmly believing that breaking down barriers to opportunity at all levels of education is essential to building a truly meritocratic society. This commitment has driven him to champion widening participation initiatives at his university, alongside tutoring both at Secondary and Sixth form levels. Through the Patchwork programme, Ethan has gained valuable insight into the breadth of the civil service and the diverse pathways available to drive meaningful change.

One of the main concerns I share with many fellow Patchworkers about pursuing a future in politics, particularly within Westminster, is the perceived lack of diversity. As a person of colour without existing connections in the political sphere, the sense of disadvantage can often feel overwhelming. However, Helen Lederer’s Masterclass at 10 Downing Street was a powerful reminder that change is possible and happening. Helen is the Head of Corporate Services at 10 Downing Street and has seen the tenancy of multiple Prime Ministers across her 13 years in the role. Alongside her role, she emphasises the importance of diversity in ensuring that the best people are placed in the right roles, which brought a sense of hope and encouragement. Her openness about her own background and the humility she displayed throughout the session were both admirable and deeply inspiring.

Helen’s Unusual Route to Downing Street:

Helen told us about her unusual route to politics and working within Downing Street, sharing that she, in fact, dropped out of her A-levels and didn’t attend University, which innately put her at a disadvantage, and isn’t something you would expect from someone who essentially runs the building at the heart of UK Politics. Having worked within the private sector for some years, she attributes her career progression to those who put her name forward for roles that she didn’t even think she ticked all the boxes for. And this was a resounding theme across the Masterclass, in the fact that you may not think you’re the complete right person for a role, but there’s always room for challenge and growth. A challenge she took on when applying for the role as the Head of Corporate Services (despite primarily applying to see inside Downing Street).

The Challenges of Leadership:

Helen’s role within UK politics, although not public-facing, is highly important, as she oversees the internal operations and functions of Downing Street. Her oversight and influence extend to HR, finance, and security, facilitating the effective and efficient running of the Prime Minister’s Office. One of the main aspects of her job is leadership, and the challenges of managing a complex organisation with multiple interconnected teams. She highlighted that one of the most demanding aspects is supporting others through stress. And in response, she says that she deals with this by getting to know every individual as a human being first, which helps her understand their needs and allows her to support them more effectively.

Another significant challenge she discussed was media scrutiny. Despite working behind the scenes, Helen has had to face public criticism for various incidents. While not directly involved, she witnessed the public outrage sparked and the subsequent impact on the morale and functioning of Downing Street. She has admitted that a difficulty within the public sector is the constant exposure to public perception and media judgment. Nevertheless, she emphasised the importance of doing the best job possible, staying grounded, and always being willing to ask the hard questions and learn from difficult experiences.

Final Thoughts:

Helen received her CBE for her promotion of Inclusivity and Diversity within the Public Sector, and is a staunch believer in the importance of a government that represents the society it serves. Her Masterclass offered a unique insight into a role not commonly known within the civil service but massively important, and I can speak for the rest of my cohort in saying it was very inspiring. I am thankful to Patchwork, Helen Lederer, and our chair, Danielle, for enabling such an enriching and impactful meeting.