I started my working life as an apprentice in the textiles industry. I then progressed to a management trainee, working full time and studying for my exams at night school. I worked my way up to the role of HR Director, before leaving to move into consultancy. The textiles and clothing industry was vibrant in Northern Ireland and Great Britain and I enjoyed a great career travelling across the globe.

I was also an elected representative to Belfast City Council. The opportunities in textiles had started to decline so I turned my focus on developing a career in politics. It was never deliberate, I think it just happened. Everyone says they go into politics to make a difference, but I really did. I couldn’t stand by and see housing association tenants living in badly maintained homes, unemployment, children missed by the system and so on any more, so I decided I would try to do something about it.

I enjoyed a surprising, fulfilling and rewarding career in politics. I never expected to achieve what I did, but I am delighted to have had the chance to play my part. I met some amazing people along the way - from all parties. Those friendships and relationships form the basis of the political events I am now hosting as Novus.

Whilst I was a politician I had the opportunity to explore particular interests of mine - animal welfare and education. Both of these remain passions, and this is why they are the subject of many of my events.

So, once I found myself no longer on the political merry go round, I decided I would utilise all the phenomenal contacts I had made to continue to champion change. To give people a voice. And to shine the light on issues that need to change - hence Novus Productions was born.