Anne Jeffery
Chair of Trustees
I moved back home to Cornwall in 2017 after many years working overseas in my own business developing leadership skills within organisations. I am passionate about enabling young people to lead full and satisfying lives and that’s why I really enjoy being involved with Active8. I am an outdoors person and regularly walk the coast path with my dog whilst, in the summer, sailing and camping are high on my list of priorities.
Mark Stevens
Deputy Chair & Designated Safeguarding Lead
Hello, I'm Mark!! I've been involved in Active8 since 2006 where I was a member of Acceler8. I loved my time in Acceler8 and met some of my closest friends there. I have been a Trustee for over a year now, and love seeing the charity grow and grow. Outside of Active8 I work Truro & Penwith College as a College Sports Activator. Basically I encourage students to be more involved in physical activity by delivering daily activities. Sport is my passion and wheelchair basketball is the sport I love most. I currently play and coach the only Cornish team.
Paul Staniland
Treasurer
I moved to Cornwall in 2013 when I retired from full time work, after many years visiting the area. I am a chartered accountant and have always been keen to support the local community. Since becoming involved with Active8 I have been impressed with the activities of the charity and the difference it is making for the young people. In my spare time I enjoy outdoor activities, including tennis and walking.
Mark Curtis
Legal Support
Hello, I’m Mark. My involvement with Active8 goes back to 2011 when I was a member of the Acceler8 programme. I loved my time in the Acceler8 programme and made great friends and gained the confidence and life skills that have served me well ever since. My positive experience with Active8 through the Acceler8 programme inspired me to become a trustee so I could support the incredible work the charity does with young people. I have been thrilled to be involved with the positive development of Active8.
Outside of Active8 I am a law graduate of the University of Exeter and work in business administration in Exeter. I am also an avid sport and film fan and can be found regularly at Sandy Park Stadium or in cinemas!
Becoming a trustee of Active8 is a terrific opportunity and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the charity’s growth.
Chloe Walker
Hello, I’m Chloe and I have been a trustee since February 2023, I enjoy being involved with Active8 as they have a positive impact and make a big difference to the lives of young people in Cornwall, which is something I am particularly passionate about as a registered Social Worker.
In my spare time, I enjoy the great outdoors and you will find me either walking, paddle boarding or riding my motorbike when the sun is shining!
Cheryl Everitt
Parent Representative
Hello, I’m Cheryl. I first became involved in Active8 when my daughter became a member of the group. She absolutely loved it, having a fantastic time and making some great friends. So I was delighted when I was asked to be a trustee, having seen what an amazing job the charity do for young people. I work as a teacher, teaching English to foreign students. I love travelling and am always trying to plan the next adventure!
Alison Thomas
GDPR and Data Protection
Felicity Gibbins
Staff Support Lead
I have known about Active8 since the beginning, as I was Liz Olive, its founder’s, partner! My role was usually to stay home and look after the dogs ..but you can’t live with someone for 25 years and not get involved at some level with their great interest and passion!
My role is staff support - so lots of cups of coffee and hot chocolate! I am now Active 8’s greatest fan ..I am SO impressed with what great work the charity does and with the wonderful young people who are part of it all.
James Ball
I’m a Cornwall councillor serving Camborne Roskear and Tuckingmill. I have been a Town Councillor for Camborne Town Council for three and half years serving two of them as the Mayor currently doing my last year in that role.
I have a passion for empowering young people making sure their voices are heard at all levels this is why I entered politics.
I come from a construction background and planning is a huge interest of mine making sure we have the right houses in the right places for the right people.
When not carrying out my councillor roles I run a youth club in the town and I am a trustee for a number of organisations Camborne Town band and Bethany homes a charity for Methodists widows to give forever homes including Active8.
Kelly McKernan
My name is Kelly McKernan, and I am a dual-registered professional — a Social Worker and a Systemic Family Practitioner. I work supporting children, young people and their families who are experiencing emotional and mental health difficulties.
I started my career in youth work, and I am forever grateful for the foundations it gave me. It taught me how to truly listen to young people, understand their views and wishes, and recognise the value of their voices in shaping meaningful change. That experience continues to influence how I work today and is where my passion for making a difference really began.
Outside of work, I am passionate about movement and the outdoors. I enjoy cycling, swimming, paddle boarding, and going to the gym, and I am currently learning classical Pilates.
I love reading and spending time in nature and often find myself exploring the Cornish countryside with my family.
Laura Saunders
Secretary
Hi, I’m Laura. I have recently been welcomed as a trustee for Active8 in the role of secretary. I have a background in working with young people with a special educational need and/ or disability and i’m passionate about enabling inclusive activities, adventures and above all fun! My husband and I have two sons, and two crazy dogs (only slightly crazier than the kids) and we love to have days out and about exploring with our home-educating lifestyle facilitating this. I’m excited to be working with the rest of the team at Active8 and look forward to being involved in the fantastic opportunities they provide.
