Our Staff

Clare has worked for MESH since December 2013. She was involved in the initial mapping of ESOL provision in Leeds and development of the first two websites. Since April of 2019 Clare has been the regional ESOL provision resource coordinator, working closely with the regional development workers and director of MESH to produce the new website, learningenglish.org.uk  Clare is an experienced ESOL teacher. She has worked in the field since 2005 and is director of Sunflower ESOL - a community based provision that makes English accessible to people living in the Lincoln Green and Harehills areas of Leeds.

John joined MESH as Director in January 2023.  He has worked in ESOL and Refugee Support since 2018, teaching English in a variety of contexts, including the third sector, adult education and prison.  Prior to 2018, John taught and researched South Asian religions and cultures at the University of Manchester.  John sees ESOL as a vital feature of multicultural society in the UK. It functions not just to foster confidence and a sense of belonging amongst migrant groups, but also as a tool of social change, by providing marginalised groups with the capacity to shape English language and UK culture differently. John’s work for MESH is driven by these principles.

Safina Arif is an ESOL Development worker for MESH with a wide range of experience in establishing and delivering community based initiatives on a local and regional level, supporting people to improve their skills and confidence, as well as raise their aspirations. Safina’s efforts have been recognised through various awards and ceremonies over the years. She approaches her work with passion and positivity, working well with others to provide essential opportunities and support in local communities. She has a great devotion for making a difference to people’s lives by passing on the importance of learning, education and the possibility of overcoming barriers

Angela joined MESH as a Development Worker in January 2022. She is an experienced ESOL and EFL teacher with a passion for supporting learners to achieve their goals and develop further skills along with their study of English, such as the use of technology. She is interested in integrating English into the daily lives of learners, particularly developing resources that can help them navigate new settings and make the most of what's available to them within their new communities.

Gulsoom joined MESH in April 2026. She has over 16 years experience working within community and voluntary organisations, working across finance, operations, grant-funded projects and community development roles, supporting Trustees, senior leadership teams and local communities.  She has extensive experience in budgeting, financial reporting, grant management and supporting community-based initiatives. Gulsoom is passionate about supporting organisations that promote equality, inclusion and community development.

Mary is a qualified ESOL teacher and has worked on community-based projects with refugees and asylum seekers.  She also has a PhD in Linguistics and is a qualified mental health nurse. She has worked in HE as both a lecturer and researcher at University of Manchester and Lancaster University. Since the summer of 2023 Mary has worked for MESH on a variety of research and extension projects.

Ethel joined MESH in May 2026 as Project Support Worker (Exploring & Belonging). She has extensive experience working on community projects with people seeking sanctuary and other migrant communities. Before joining MESH, Ethel worked for the New Beginnings Project at Voluntary Action Sheffield and with SAVTE, supporting participation in community activities and English language learning. She also worked for various theatre companies, using theatre, storytelling, and creative writing to build confidence, and support language development. Drawing on both professional and lived experience of forced migration, Ethel is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where people can share their stories, strengths, experiences and knowledge.