Celebrating our Charity's Women: Erica Boardman

This week we're spotlighting the amazing women at Greater Manchester Mayor's Charity

Erica Boardman has been a Trustee at the charity since Autumn 2022. Erica has a rich 25 years of experience in communications having most recently been Director of Communications at the Equality and Human Rights Commission. She's currently on a career break while she studies for a Masters in Media Psychology alongside supporting the charity with her expertise.

We put her in the hot seat and asked her a few questions about her time at the charity, see what she had to say:

What’s been the most interesting thing you’ve encountered as a Trustee for GMMC?

I’ve really enjoyed hearing about the local charities that GMMC partners with who are working tirelessly to support people who find themselves homeless in Greater Manchester. They make a real difference and it’s great that GMMC is able to support them through its grants programme.

What’s been the most unexpected thing you’ve encountered as a Trustee for GMMC?

I’m tempted to say promoting a DJ battle between Andy Burnham and Steve Rotherham, the Mayor of Liverpool! That’s certainly not something I thought I’d be doing! It was great to see the reaction to the night and, of course, it had a serious purpose as it raised £20k for the charity and will fund over 650 beds in A Bed Every Night accommodation.

After lots of exciting roles, you’ve gone back to uni to advance your skillset. What piece of advice would you give to someone wanting to do similar?

If you can, go for it! It was quite a scary prospect to be giving up work to go back to uni and I had moments of wondering why I was doing it but I’ve enjoyed every minute and it’s challenging me to think differently. I know I’m really lucky to be able to take a year out so it’s about making the most of it while I can.

Keep an eye out for more content this week as we celebrate International Women's Day!

We're so grateful to Erica for her dedication to the charity. Thanks so much, Erica!

Donate today and know that your money will help tackle homelessness across our city-region for a fairer and more sustainable future.