Our Team

Natalie Wade

Founder

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Natalie Started Small Green Shoots back in 2009 to aid disadvantage young people to get into the Music industry. Using her experience and network she planted the seed that has bloomed into what Small Green Shoots has become today.

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Makeda was the first young person to join the organisation when it launched in 2009 and has over 15 years’ experience working in the creative and cultural sector. Specialising in leading diverse teams, strategic planning, and growing businesses, she is now Managing Director at Small Green Shoots and works alongside Director of Operations Emma Randle to run the company. Her role involves building partnerships, overseeing the success and growth of the company, management of the team and acting as the face of the organisation. Makeda is the Founder of creative CIC MakedaMakes, a qualified life coach, evaluator, arts award assessor, fundraising consultant, mentor and a Women in music and Clore fellowship graduate. She sits on the board of creative academy BCE in Walthamstow, Leicester based Black Arts & Heritage organisation Opall22 and Music Education Islington.

Makeda McMillan

Managing Director

Emma Randle

Director of Operations

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Emma joined Small Green Shoots in 2021 as Director of Operations, supporting the transition and strategic review process which saw Makeda McMillan appointed as Managing Director. Emma works closely with Makeda in managing SGS and its future ambitions and is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the company, including finance and governance. Emma was previously General Manager at The Urdang Academy and an independent theatre producer for over a decade. She also was Branch Director & Chair of Trustees for Central London Samaritans having been a volunteer for over 15 years.

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As part of our Creative Connects programme, Taz helps artists and arts organisations secure funding by developing fundable ideas, crafting strong applications, and providing ongoing support throughout the funding and reporting process. Her role ensures that our clients have the guidance they need every step of the way!

Tasmyn Wint

Head of Creatives Connect

Charlotte Burgess

Outreach & Short Sharp Shot Manager

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Charlotte manages all aspects of outreach for Small Green Shoots; which includes contacting organisation and events to have pop ups, going or inviting schools or youth social clubs to Small Green Shoots to learn who we are and express to young people the opportunities SGS provides. She also manages the Short Sharp Shot programme twice a year.

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As Head of Culture & Development, she helps young people break into the creative industries by providing one-on-one pastoral support, overseeing personal and professional growth for Young Shoots and Alumni, and managing secondments and placements.

Makeda Bennett - Amaparbeng

Cultures & Youth Development Manager

Isaiah Shittu

Content & Marketing Lead

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As the Content and Marketing Manager at Small Green Shoots, I ensure our brand stays visually compelling and strategically aligned across all platforms. My role focuses on leading the Content & Marketing team in crafting engaging content that resonates with diverse audiences while maintaining a strong, consistent brand identity. I'm passionate about nurturing emerging talent, equipping them with the skills and confidence to thrive in the industry. With a background in marketing, content production, and videography, I am on a mission to tell the story of Small Green Shoots in the most impactful way possible.

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Brianna started out as one of our sharps, became a shoot being a personal assistant to the Managing Director Makeda and has now become a member of the core team. She maintains the office standards for all members of the team, assists in operations with Emma and takes lead in recruitment.

Brianna Jeferrey - Yearwood

Programme & Office co-ordinator

Milli - Rose

Islington and Camden Outreach co-ordinator

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Milli - Rose ensure targets are hit and exceeded within Islington. She produces events, programmes and tracks data all for Islington residence.

Natalie Wade

Makeda McMillan

Emma Randle

Tasmyn Wint

Charlotte Burgess

Makeda Bennett - Amaparbeng

Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of emerging adults?