Being a Pecan Trustee
Discover how our trustee Esenam’s journey led her to Pecan, and how our shared values fuel her passion for unlocking potential and overcoming life’s challenges.
I can’t pinpoint exactly when I first heard of Pecan. It may have been while volunteering at the CAB in Southwark, or simply from passing it countless times while in the Peckham area. Either way, Pecan became known to me as a fixture in the community, a place providing much-needed support to people who were struggling. So, when I later saw an advertisement for a Trustee vacancy, I didn’t hesitate to apply.
‘One of my aims in joining the Board was to bring my experience in policy, communications, and partnerships to help Pecan achieve its potential.’
What drew me in was the ethos. Pecan’s values and aims align closely with my own commitment to fulfilling potential and overcoming the hurdles of life. Whether through women’s services, employment support, the foodbank or the Pantry, the charity offers not just help, but dignity. It provides the basics that enable people to get back on their feet, rebuild confidence, and move forward. In many ways, it feels like walking alongside people as they navigate some of the most difficult seasons of their lives.
As trustees, we’re in the privileged position of helping to guide Pecan’s strategic direction and ensure it meets its obligations within the law and within its mission. What keeps us going is the visible impact on people’s lives, the dedication of the staff, and the tangible difference the organisation makes despite a challenging landscape.
‘Every business, organisation, or individual who chooses to support Pecan strengthens the safety net for people facing hardship.‘
One of my aims in joining the Board was to bring my experience in policy, communications, and partnerships to help Pecan achieve its potential. And at a recent Partnership event for our supporters, I was reminded that partnership isn’t just helpful, it can be transformational. Hearing directly from local businesses that choose to stand with Pecan, whether through donations or volunteering, highlighted something important: community transformation is a collective effort. Pecan’s impact is strongest when it works hand in hand with committed partners.
Every business, organisation, or individual who chooses to support Pecan strengthens the safety net for people facing hardship. If your organisation shares our heart for community, dignity, and long-term change, we invite you to walk with us.
Whether through skills sharing, fundraising, staff volunteering, or long-term partnership, your support can help Pecan continue offer not only dignity, and practical support but belief, kindness, and hope to people who need it most.
Your involvement can open doors, create opportunities, and help rewrite stories.
Esenam works within Policy, Communications and Partnerships. She’d also like to share news about our Big Give Christmas Challenge:
For one extraordinary week – 2-9 December 2025, every donation you make will be doubled – helping us provide more good food and practical support to local families facing impossible choices. LINK
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