Nikki Watson, 29, is associate director with Green Shoes Arts in Barking and Dagenham. She speaks to Kay Atwal about changing lives

“I love working with Green Shoes. Not only do we produce high quality art projects – we strongly believe in making a change in people’s lives through engaging in arts projects.

“The company is built on the ethos that arts can have an impact on the wider community.

“I’m passionate about creating great art, but even more passionate about creating brilliant projects people can really enjoy being part of, and that can have a positive outcome outside Green Shoes.

“I started working for Green Shoes Arts in 2010. I was fresh out of the University of Roehampton but the other directors saw the passion I had for delivering inclusive dance and art projects, and that mirrored their own belief that involvement in the arts makes a genuine difference in people’s lives.

“Since starting I’ve managed a number of projects for Green Shoes and in 2013 I was asked to join the team as a director.

“It was a great honour for me.

“I couldn’t imagine my life without Green Shoes now – particularly the bond I’ve developed with our participants.

“This year is exciting for us as we celebrate our fifth birthday. We’re also moving to a new location at Chadwell Heath Community Centre at the beginning of October.

“By the end of the year all our projects will be based here. Together with The Children’s Centre, Active Age, The Friends of Chadwell Heath Community Centre and the council, we’re hoping to make the new venue a real hub.

“Everyone has such great ideas for the centre – and how we can work closely together to ensure our projects involve even more of the community.”

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