Hi I'm Sarah, a Buckland born artist & founder of StudioSVPD which I started in 2011. At SmART I support the planning, prepping and facilitation of the weekly activities. Outside of smART I wear many hats, the most important one is as a carer; I also work with local architect Charles Holland,Artswork & baker La Baguette D’Or. If I have time & energy after all that, I enjoy Kent’s creative culture, gardening, folklore, psychology, circle dancing, crafting and walking the hills that surround Dover.
Black text that reads 'THE TEAM' in large, bold letters.
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Hi, I'm Amy and I work with our Young Carers, seeing the happiness on their faces when they create something and watching them leave so much brighter than when they arrived, never gets old. Outside of Dover SmART, I run an eco refill business. I love repurposing clothes and I once had a week-long exhibition at the Gallery called Re:constructing Fashion | Forming the Circle. I've just started journaling too, and I'm terrible at growing plants, but that doesn't stop me trying.
I founded Dover Smart Project in 2013 to ensure that all children, regardless of background, have access to art and cultural opportunities. I believe strongly that creativity and community can build a more inclusive and connected society. A lifelong Dover resident, I studied art before working at the Port of Dover and later retrained as a teacher after having my twins. Alongside leading Smart, I care for my mum who lives with dementia. Outside of work, I enjoy creating my own art, gardening, and walking our three dogs on the hills around Dover.
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Hello, I’m Claire, your SmArt Angel. I am a proud Mum of two grown children. For many years I worked as an accounts clerk. I decided I needed to do something more rewarding where I could help others which resulted in me joining Dover Smart. At SmArt, I help to run our young carers, Art of Age, Cancer, and Parent group. I also visit secondary schools weekly to support our communities young carers. I love living by the sea and being out in nature, especially walking our dog Alfie. I’m also a member of the local sports centre, I start my week by attending dance fit or a spin class. I also love travelling
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Hi, I'm Sasha. Before joining Dover SmART, I worked in recruitment and hospitality in London, but moving back to Kent and working for a charity was always what I really wanted to do. In my current role I am in charge of all the admin and social media for the charity, whilst also assisting in day to day operations alongisde the CEO. I studied History and Politics at university and went on to do a Masters in Art and Politics. My younger self would be thrilled. My student loan is less impressed. Outside of work I like to think I'm fairly crafty. I love knitting and crochet, and I'm also a keen runner.
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Hello I'm Ally, I had come across Dover Smart whilst working in a Dover school as a teacher and was amazed by the work they did. When the opportunity arose to work with the team I jumped at it. I feel privileged to be able to work with the young carers of Dover, supporting them and helping them in their caring roles. I am a carer myself , so do share an understanding of their experiences. When I'm not with Dover Smart I am busy with my own interests including calligraphy, book binding. quilting, slow stitching, embroidery, knitting, crochet, reading and trying to keep fit.