ZEBRA ACCESS - Key Persons
Bob Marsh - Managing Director
Bob was previously our Head of Employment services and, with his team, delivered a high class level of employability support for Deaf customers across the Black Country and over achieving all contractual targets. Bob has returned to Zebra Access to utilise his contract and fundraising strategy skills in this part-time role which we are confident will be every bit as successful as his previous roles.
Having been born deaf, Clare experienced many barriers growing up, especially being raised in a hearing family environment. Clare discovered the deaf community in her early teens where she finally felt at home with her peers who has lived through similar experiences and barriers as she did. Clare recognises that communication access to information, peer support groups and services is paramount to everyone's mental wellbeing. Upon being employed as a Wellbeing Officer, she will strive to continue Zebra Access' accessible wellbeing events, services, workshops and trips to make life better for Deaf people without barriers.
Job Titles:
- Community Liaison Officer & Team Leader
Deirdre has been working for Zebra Access since 2017 in various roles. Deirdre grew up in the Deaf community and passionately believe in a person-centric approach with advocating and empowering which mean enabling a platform for Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing people to share their voices.
I was born Deaf and have lived in Wolverhampton for most of my life, which has allowed me to build strong connections within the Deaf community across the West Midlands. With over 20 years of extensive experience working for various organisations, I have developed a wide range of transferable skills that I now bring to my role as Advocacy Officer at Zebra Access. In this position, I support the Deaf community by providing advice on a variety of issues, including benefits, housing, employment, travel, and debt. As part of the Advocacy Team at Zebra Access, I'm here to support you.
Job Titles:
- Communications & Marketing Officer
Jack Smallwood, who is proud Deaf, born and raised in Wolverhampton, is a familiar face in the local community. Jack has joined the Zebra Access team for the Communications & Marketing Officer role, where Jack is keen to jump on board with Zebra Access to bring his experience in media, plus share his expertise and eager to invest his skills, knowledge, and humour with Deaf and hard of hearing community in Wolverhampton and the Black County.
Jack is still currently working with Zebra Uno Ltd for the specialist in media and working along with Deaffest, the UK's leading Deaf-led Film & Arts Festival, where he is working with them for over 13 years already!
Jack does have his hands full with both the Zebra team and his name is 'Jack of all trades', hence his name.
Mirriam, who has been deaf since birth, discovered her true sense of identity within the deaf community after facing challenges fitting in with the hearing world throughout her childhood. Mirriam has taken on various roles, including volunteering for Deaffest's 15th Anniversary and worked as a BSL Assistant. Now, as she steps into the role of Information Advice Guidance Officer, she is committed to helping deaf individuals navigate their struggles, providing the guidance and support they need to thrive. She looks forward to making a positive impact as part of the team.
Robyn Swannack, who grew up in the Deaf community in South Africa and Australia, brings a diverse skill set encompassing research, project coordination, training, and community outreach. Holding a Master's degree in Anthropology, Robyn is passionately dedicated to making a positive impact using her expertise within the Deaf community and beyond. She is committed to empowering individuals who are Deaf, Deafblind, Hard of Hearing, or Deafened to share their stories and preserving their heritage.
Shrinidhi, born and raised in India, brings extensive experience in fundraising, grant management, donor relations, and policy research. Holding a Master's degree in Social Work and Public Policy, Shrinidhi is deeply committed to advocating for inclusive environments. Passionate about ensuring that individuals who are Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing have access to the resources they need, Shrinidhi aims to work towards raising vital funds to support the deaf community to ensure empowerment and inclusion.