Lakshan Wanigasooriya (Chair) –

I have been involved in the East Side Youth Centre since 2008 when I first became a Trustee. In 2012 I was appointed the Chair.

The centre has provided a safe and warm space for young people and also for other charities who work with young people and vulnerable groups. They can meet, play on our various table and electronic games. We believe the centre provides a huge service for the local community.

Over the years we have been blessed by a great human resource to carry on the work of the centre. My thanks go to all who have served and will serve to keep this hugely valuable asset a special place.

Colin, Treasurer and trustee

Although I retired from full-time employment in 2015, I viewed this as a career-change rather than the end of my working life, and have never regretted that decision.  I have worked with young people off and on for over 60 years, and felt inclined to continue in that direction, but perhaps in a more “backroom” role.  About that time, Richard Peters wanted to off-load his involvement with the Youth Centre as Treasurer and recover the time one of his staff was spending on the day-to-day financial controls of ESYC.  I remember he said “It’s about 3 hours per month”.  I didn’t believe that and have become far more involved to the point that I work on average about 3 days per month for ESYC.  I’m not complaining – I love it and it’s keeping me young.

Kathryn, Secretary

I joined the Eastside Trustees in July 2023 and I am the Trustee Secretary. I have been involved in leading youth clubs and mentoring young people for many years, and I’m now working to help support other youth workers in their area to engage with and support youth. I have worked in Eastside and run youth groups out of the centre, I absolutely loved what it offers the community and its amazing potential for the youth in our area so became involved as a trustee.
I am also married with two children and enjoy film nights and baking.

Dawn D’Silva, Operations Manager

My start in ESYC began when I was 12, going to my first ever young carers meeting. Although nerve wracking at first, my Thursday nights soon became filled with life long memories playing table tennis, pool as well as participating in plenty of workshops etc... This youth centre definitely helped shape me into who I am today. Seeing the next generation come through this centre fills me with not only nostalgia but joy knowing it can help others find that confidence within themselves to be themselves like I did.

Since then I’ve been involved in lots of community work, whether it be serving my elders at the St. Andrews lunch club I help run, creche work or a bit of good old fashioned DIY, ill turn my hand to anything.

In my downtime I’m an avid painter, sculptor and even dabble in a bit of creative writing from time to time.