Who Are We?
Learn MoreStaff
Ali Mahgoub
Chief Executive
My name is Ali and I have over 25 years of experience in the third, non-profit sector. I am a human rights activist, I’m passionate about politics and inequalities, and I also speak more than five languages.
Ranya Abdulateef
Art Therapy & Wellbeing Co-ordinator
About
I am an Artist and the proud founder of MelograniArt embroidery designs.
My printmaking practice incorporates embroidery, illustration, painting and photography. Inspired by nature and Islamic geometric designs, my unique hand-drawn screen prints and fabric works are extremely detailed, often using the layering of multiple artistic techniques to combine creative mediums. I am now based at The Art House as part of their Studio of Sanctuary programme.
I take pride of being an engaged and valued member of the studio holder community at The Art House. I also deliver a range of printmaking/ textiles workshops, volunteer with Wakefield City of Sanctuary and am an active member of the Merrie Collective, a group of early-career photography artists and creatives in Wakefield.”
Donna Gallier
Advocacy Worker
About
My name is Donna and I moved to Leeds during the COVID pandemic. I have had a varied career up to date with over 10 years experience in education, as well as experience in both the civil service and charity sector. I am extremely passionate about ensuring equal opportunities for all and removing barriers that prevent people from achieving their full potential.
Hannah Westen
Administrator
Sasha
Ukrainian Community Support Officer
Alison Shepherd
Education Co-ordinator
Bracken Devlin
Social Media & Graphic Design
Trustees
Leeds Refugee Forum is entirely community led. Our Board of Trustees is made up of individuals elected by our members. Our trustees come from the refugee community in Leeds. Trustees meet every six to eight weeks to administer the running of the organisation and the One Community Centre.
Kathy Seamian
Chair of Trustees
Professor Louise Waite
Secretary
Godefroid Rubomboza
Treasurer
Haleh Jahanshahlou
Trustee
Maxmed Hussein
Trustee
Pria Bhabra
Trustee
Naima Mohamed
Trustee
Fatemeh Khansalar
Trustee
Andrew Rathbone
Trustee
Taurai Cheteni
Trustee
Volunteers
Volunteers are invaluable to LRF and help us to run our wide range of services – from running classes, to translation support, to administrative help.
We think everyone has something to contribute to our community.