Gem Novis

Gemma is a dedicated community and youth work practitioner fuelled by her passion for community development, equalities, and inclusion.

Gem's journey was ignited by her upbringing on a sprawling council housing estate in South-east London during the 1980s. The impact of Stephen Lawrence's tragic murder on her school and community, coupled with becoming a young caregiver for her disabled mother, inspired Gemma to pursue community and youth work training at Goldsmiths, University of London. Graduating with a first-class degree, and a professional youth work qualification, she returned as an associate tutor and remains engaged with the youth work training program as a member of the Social, Therapeutic & Community Studies advisory group.

In addition to her parents' fostering background, Gemma's experience as a foster carer and early permanence adopter adds to her depth of experience. Now as a freelance associate trainer, she also dedicates herself to youth and community engagement projects.