Hear from our Trustee, Shilla, on her experience on the board of Reset

We spoke to Shilla Mutamba, one of our Trustees, about her experience and why you should apply to join our board!

Why did you apply to be a Reset Board Trustee?

I applied for the Reset Board Trustee opportunity because my personal values are aligned with Reset’s mission of enabling more people and organisations to become involved in community-led welcome of newcomers. Having studied Corporate Governance, Risk and Control as part of an MBA program, coupled with business experience, a multi-contextual scientific/research career and a passion for board diversity and inclusive leadership, I wanted to use my skills, knowledge, experience and unique perspective to support Reset’s purpose, while also learning from others. Although I do not have lived experience as a refugee, I felt that I could draw on my experience as an ethnic minority economic immigrant. When I relocated to England from Africa to take up a new job many years ago, my move was eased and facilitated by a supportive employer, a supportive church family and friends who I picked up along the way. My heart warms up when I think about the kindness that I was shown by complete strangers who have since become friends and colleagues – this is the power of community. By serving as a Reset Board Trustee and ensuring that Reset delivers its purpose effectively, I trust that I am contributing towards helping others to have a positive integration experience.

What does the Reset Board Trustee role entail?

As a Reset trustee, I serve alongside other trustees who bring their own unique perspectives to the decision-making process. Together, we make up the Reset Trustee Board and are collectively responsible for shaping Reset’s strategy, making key decisions and ensuring that Reset stays true to its vision, mission and purpose. Among other things, we ensure that Reset pursues its specified objectives in a sustainable manner and that it effectively manages its resources, complies with relevant legislation, remains accountable, makes informed decisions, effectively manages risks and maintains effective board performance. In addition to supporting the executive and senior management team with advice and other resources, we also perform the important role of bringing independent and objective constructive  challenge as needed, with the aim of ensuring that the charity is managed effectively for the benefit of the people whose needs Reset supports.