We chose a tropical island theme for this year’s Annual Celebration – partly because our retiring CEO, Deven Pillay, will now have more time to soak up the sun on his favourite island, Mauritius. And partly because it perfectly suited our special homage, Deven Island Discs, celebrating 21 years of leadership, growth and community.
The evening was full of warmth and energy, compered by Trustees David House and Milan Korea. We opened with a lively “Hot Coconut” icebreaker led by our exuberant HR Director, David Hudson, before hearing waves of vibrant impact statements from our Senior Managers reflecting on the difference our services continue to make.
We also marked important changes in leadership. We said goodbye to Ash Verma, our long-standing Chair of the Community ConneX Board of Trustees, and welcomed Rebecca Amin as the new Chair. Siddarth Mukne was announced as Vice Chair, with Henry Anaele appointed as a new Trustee.
A real highlight of the evening was hearing from the Advocacy 1st team. Asimah, Head of Care Act and Advocacy Services, gave a powerful overview of what Advocacy 1st delivers across Harrow, Oxfordshire and Luton, explaining how independent advocacy ensures that people’s voices are heard when decisions are being made about their care, health and wellbeing. She spoke about the importance of standing alongside individuals, upholding their rights under the Care Act, Mental Capacity Act and Mental Health Act, and making sure their wishes remain central at every stage.
Rachel, Advocacy 1st Service Manager Oxford and Luton, followed with a moving example of advocacy 1st in action, sharing the story of a client whose voice had previously gone unheard. With the support of Advocacy 1st, the individual was able to express their views clearly, challenge decisions that did not reflect their needs, and achieve meaningful changes in their life. Her story was a powerful reminder that advocacy is not just about attending meetings; it is about restoring confidence, dignity and control.
Our new CEO, Alison Davies, hosted a nostalgic and heartfelt conversation with Deven, who chose music that symbolised his 21-year journey with his Community ConneX family.
