Get to know us
OUR TEAM
Our team is composed of passionate individuals who are committed to fostering unity, promoting community development, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Each member brings unique skills, experiences, and perspectives that contribute to our collective mission. Together, we strive to make White City an even better place to live, work, and thrive. Here, you'll get to know more about the dynamic individuals behind our initiatives. Join us as we continue to build a stronger, more connected community.
John Kariko, Community Development Manager
John is a dedicated community development manager at W12together, passionate about fostering collaboration and growth within the community. With a background in project management and a commitment to social impact, John works tirelessly to facilitate partnerships, organize events, and implement initiatives that bring people together and drive positive change.
Jenny Chigwende, Co-Chair and Health Lead
Jenny has lived in West London for 16 years, she has also worked in the borough for many years. Working in mental health within the NHS for over a two decades, she has seen the impact of stigma and psychosocial pressures that can have devastating impacts on adults, children and families. Through volunteering with W12Together she is excited to have the opportunity to serve the community and to support them to find health and wellbeing solutions that are self-sustaining. She is passionate about Community Psychology, Liberation Psychology, Social Justice.
Oliver Clayton, Health
Oli has lived in W12 for 6 years and knows every inch of every playground being the father to two young boys. He works in community development and sits on the Health team within the W12Together Board. Oli is passionate about the role that communities can play in supporting each other to live healthy and happy lives, and is excited to do just this through the activities of W12Together.
Harry Jones
Harry has lived in or around W12 for most of his life and was one of the founding board members for W12Together. He has worked in local development in 6 countries around the world and nowadays is a civil servant.
Ridwan Ibrahim, Youth
I'm Ridwan, growing up in W12 has shaped me into who I am today - it's my home, my community. My heart is deeply rooted in the community here, especially when it comes to youth development. I manage Woodlane FC, where we coach everyone from kids to adults. I also lead the youth theme for W12 Together, aiming to amplify young voices. Beyond my community work, I'm passionate about sustainability, which I incorporate into my day job in the energy industry. Essentially, I'm just a local trying to do his bit, hoping to see W12 flourish.
Mutthu Karappan
My name is Mutthu Karappan, I've been a longstanding member of the community and a board member since the inception of Big Local, now known as W12Together. I have been actively involved in organising various projects aimed at bringing the community together and enhancing their connectivity. My background experience lies in sales and marketing, and I am a hands-on person with engineering skills. Additionally, I have a passion for vegetable gardening.
Kane Alexander, Health & Youth
Kane has lived in W12 for ten years and grew up nearby, he was one of the founding board members of W12Together. He previously worked in finance and now enjoys working as a doctor for the NHS. He is passionate about working on community projects that help improve locals’ health and wellbeing.
Lawrence, Treasurer
Lawrence has lived in and around West London for the past 12 years and has been a resident of Wormholt and White City for the past 4 years. Lawrence works with global tech firms, likes animals, enjoys cooking and lives for a better community.
Nuno, Coming Together & Youth
Nuno, a resident of W12 for over 44 years, originally from Portugal, is a certified Test Engineer since 1978, holding credentials from MoD, C.A.A., and London Underground Transport. Nuno managed telecommunications and bio-medical electronics in Angola. In 1999, he founded the Portuguese School of IT in London, demonstrating a commitment to community education. Recognised with the 2023 Teaching Excellence by STEM, Nuno earned QTLS Status in 2011. Passionate about Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion, he was named the Best Student Volunteer of the year 2009/10. Currently, Nuno encourages future careers in engineering, and other sectors by delivering guitar lessons and computer skills in the heart of W12 at Parkview.