Serious Trustees

Trustees

Joel Kibazo (Chair)

Joel is a former diplomat, journalist, and founding partner of JK Associates, a London-based public affairs consultancy focusing on Africa.

'Music has been a passion throughout my life and combined with the chance to help bring on the next generation of musicians meant joining Serious Trust was an opportunity I could not resist. I find there is no greater joy than working with my colleagues to assist in the development of young talent and finding the stars of the future.'

Vera Kwakofi

Vera is an experienced Media Management Executive and Current Affairs Editor at BBC World Service Group.

'My first encounter with Serious began in Ghana in a collaboration with African Artists to mark the millennium. The commitment of Serious to building relationships and breaking down barriers through the music has always attracted my attention and now as a Trustee of Serious Trust, I get to be part of that story of supporting future talent and I couldn’t be happier.'

Miranda Johnson

Miranda is an experienced leader across both the arts and wider charitable/commercial sectors, with extensive fundraising experience and professional musical training.

"I was thrilled to see the brilliant programming Serious brought to Britten Pears Arts' outdoor Dome Stage and the great diversity and new audiences it encouraged. It inspired me to join as a Trustee to support their fundamental fundraising efforts and more, to make sure Serious can keep championing such rich, high-quality live music."

Ian Latham

Ian is a Chartered Accountant who supports media and tech companies as a Fractional CFO, and has been a lifelong jazz fan.

“I’ve been awestruck by countless world class concerts thanks to Serious’ dedication to live music promotion. Their work adds so much breadth and vibrancy to the cultural life of London. So I’m delighted to be able to support their mission now.”

Anna Feuchtwang

Anna is the Chief Executive of the National Children's Bureau alongside sitting on the Lambeth Early Action Partnership board and several government advice and steering groups.

'Back in 1999 I had one of my favourite ever jobs as Director of On the Line, a charity set up to celebrate the lives of people who live on the 0 degrees meridian line. Serious were the creative producers and through them I was introduced to some amazing musicians culminating in a spectacular gig at Union Chapel by artists from each of the eight countries on the line. So it’s a real thrill to be working with Serious again, indulging my love of jazz and music from across the globe. I know I’ll get a real buzz from being part of a charity that nurtures musical talent, I hope that my experience working across the systems and structures that are meant to support children and young people – and too often don’t – will provide some insight into how much more we can do.'

Rodrigo Voss

Rodrigo is the Head of Operations and Governance at the Forces in Mind Trust and has extensive management experience across the charity and commercial sectors.

'Music has always been a big part of my life; I am excited to join the Board of Serious Trust and contribute to a cause that uses the power of culture to engage, inspire, and transform individuals and communities.'

Froniga Lambert

Froniga is the Chief Operating Officer at the National Centre for Circus Arts, having previously held roles at the Southbank Centre and King's College London.

'Having worked for many years at Southbank Centre, I got to know Serious’ work well and have been lucky enough to attend a number of Jazz Festival performances over the years. The Trust’s support of young and aspiring performers has never been more crucial, and I am delighted to be a part of Serious Trust’s journey.'

Patrons

• Baroness Amos
• Jon Snow
• Kwame Kwei-Armah
• Ludovico Einaudi
• Richard Thompson

Seriously Talented Honorary

• John Surman
• Jules Buckley