Iniciaste sesión como:
filler@godaddy.com
Who are we?
Our founder Charlene Whitehead
We are a passionate team of volunteers and staff dedicated to enhancing young people's mental health and creating volunteer opportunities that pave the way for a brighter future. Our founder, Charlene, has spent over 11 years working with refugee children along the Thai-Burmese border. She holds a degree in Philosophy and International Relations from Sussex University and has trained as a circus performer at Circomedia. Additionally, she has gained valuable experience as a support worker in the UK with Right Resolution CIC for care leavers. Driven by her love for both circus arts and humanitarian efforts, Big Top Arts embodies the perfect intersection of her passions, offering innovative youth programs that support mental health initiatives.
Board of trustees
Tom
Houda
Nora
Currently freelance, Tom is an economic research specialist who since 2010 has worked with the government and as a consultant supporting local regeneration projects, particularly youth programs that enhance skills and promote mental health in the community. His focus has also included the development of the cultural and arts sector. More recently, Tom has concentrated on the UK Industrial Strategy, aiming to cultivate inclusive routes and opportunities in Green Technology, AI, and Life Sciences sectors in London.
Tom is passionate about using good economics to promote social justice and reduce inequality. He actively seeks out volunteer opportunities that align with his values. In his spare time, Tom enjoys live music, good food, and exploring the banks of the River Thames either on foot or by paddleboard.
Nora
Houda
Nora
Nora is a Senior Programme Manager at 4R Digital who has worked across the globe to deliver projects addressing digital literacy, financial inclusion, climate change, agriculture, health, and mental health. Nora is passionate about social impact, food justice, and the arts, and she is delighted to channel these passions into her role as a trustee for Big Top Arts, which also offers volunteer opportunities and youth programs. In her free time, Nora enjoys walks on the South Downs or reading a great book...
Houda
Houda
Houda
Houda is a Senior Researcher at the Institute for Voluntary Action Research (IVAR), where she collaborates with charities, foundations, and public agencies to strengthen communities across the UK through action research, education, and training. Her work often focuses on enhancing mental health support and expanding volunteer opportunities within various youth programs.
Passionate about improving the lives and opportunities for young people, Houda serves as a trustee for Big Top Arts and also supports her local community nursery in the same capacity. In her free time, she enjoys gardening and going on adventures with her two young children.
Volunteers & Staff
At Big Top Arts, volunteers are the lifeblood of our organization, providing invaluable support and energy to our mission of promoting mental health through engaging youth programs. We rely on their dedication and talents to help bring our initiatives to life, from organizing events to connecting with the community. Their passion and commitment allow us to extend our reach and enhance our impact, making each program a vibrant and collaborative endeavor. Without our volunteers, our efforts to create positive change in the world, particularly in mental health and youth engagement, would not be possible.
Would you like to make a difference? Join us as a volunteer at Big Top Arts! Your skills and enthusiasm can help us create meaningful experiences in the community. Sign up today and be part of something special!
Spark Circus Project manager
Kim Regan
Big Top Arts is powered by a passionate and talented team working together from across Australia. United by a shared commitment to making a difference, we are part of a community that prioritizes mental health, offers volunteer opportunities, and focuses on youth programs to create a lasting impact.
Actor, juggler, performer, circus trainer
Mr Jules
Social Circus activist Jules co-founded Social Circus Myanmar in 2016, which operated annually until 2020. In October 2022, Circus Play began work in Mae Sot, running for three months each year. With a belief that play and fun can significantly contribute to mental health, they aim to foster skills, confidence, friendships, and well-being through their youth programs and provide valuable volunteer opportunities for those looking to make a difference.
Circus Project Northants Workshop Leader
Gabriella Songui
I am a freelance arts facilitator, writer, producer, and storyteller, dedicated to creating impactful youth programs that promote mental health. As co-director of the community arts organization Windswept Workshops, I also oversee various volunteer opportunities that engage the community.
Hi I am little bird
Myo Naung
I discovered magic tricks in Grade 10 and became so passionate that I neglected my school subjects. I performed magic shows and busked, finding joy in youth programs that focused on mental health, but COVID forced a stop. Just as I could resume, a military coup occurred. My dream is to be a comedy magician, making children happy and spreading joy through volunteer opportunities. Despite hardships, I find happiness in seeing others smile.
Uliana Sotnikova
I always dreamed of running away with the circus, and Spark Circus made that dream real. Teaching and performing with the kids in their youth programs — especially juggling, handstands, and acrobatics — has not only helped me grow as both a teacher and a performer, but it has also contributed positively to my mental health. It's been an incredible volunteer opportunity that enriches both my life and the lives of the children.
Our Major Partners
The Santuary Thailand
The Santuary Thailand
The Santuary Thailand
The Sanctuary Thailand, a key supporter of our mission, actively aids the Karen and Burmese communities by sponsoring our circus school and hosting fundraising events. These initiatives provide essential resources and opportunities for young people, supporting youth programs that promote mental health and resilience while helping us foste
The Sanctuary Thailand, a key supporter of our mission, actively aids the Karen and Burmese communities by sponsoring our circus school and hosting fundraising events. These initiatives provide essential resources and opportunities for young people, supporting youth programs that promote mental health and resilience while helping us foster joy and valuable skills among those in need. Additionally, we offer volunteer opportunities for those looking to make a difference.
Right Resolution
The Santuary Thailand
The Santuary Thailand
We also collaborate closely with the incredible organization Right Resolution, which supports young people transitioning out of care to lead more productive and hopeful lives. Through our joint efforts, we provide valuable youth programs that focus on mental health and create meaningful volunteer opportunities. Together, we empower young
We also collaborate closely with the incredible organization Right Resolution, which supports young people transitioning out of care to lead more productive and hopeful lives. Through our joint efforts, we provide valuable youth programs that focus on mental health and create meaningful volunteer opportunities. Together, we empower young individuals and build a brighter future through our shared dedication.
Circus Play
The Santuary Thailand
Circus Play
We work alongside Circus Play in Mae Sot, collaborating closely to deliver engaging youth programs, including Social Circus and Play initiatives that promote mental health and support the social and personal development of children, youth, and young adults in the community, while also providing valuable volunteer opportunities.