Melissa joined Cumberland Lodge in 2023 and is responsible for managing the centre’s programme development and implementation.
She has over two decades experience leading major programmes and international research projects in the UK, Europe, and Asia, focusing on how we manage cultural change, social conflict, diversity, and inequality. Melissa has held academic posts at Birkbeck, University of London, the Open University, and Trinity College, Dublin, in addition to previous experience in the media, youth work, development education, intercultural consultancy and diversity training. She enjoys collaborating with a range of stakeholders, including youth organisations, artists, NGOs, and the corporate sector, to create education programmes that supports social cohesion, conflict reduction, and understanding processes of change.
When not in the office, Melissa can be found jogging around the Park or taking part in various community activities in east London.