Kerry Peters-Taylor
Head of BIG Alliance and Digital Lead

I joined BIG Alliance in April 2023, having previously worked at ELBA since 2016. I oversee The BIG Alliance and look after the partnerships with our corporate partners and funders, alongside overseeing the programme offering and managing the wonderful and hugely talented team at BIG.

I am so excited to be part of an organisation that is making a real difference in Islington. Since starting, I have had the chance to witness the phenomenal work that has been accomplished by the BIG team and our partners and funders over the past 10+ years. The commitment and engagement of the partners in Islington has truly stood out to me, and it's inspiring to see the positive impact that their work has had on the community.

In my own time, I go for regular walks in Epping Forest with my dog. Where I live I am very lucky to be surrounded by delicious coffee shops, restaurants and pubs!

Luke Brown
Deputy Head of Programmes

I look after our team volunteering programme which involves finding groups of volunteers to create, maintain and improve community spaces around Islington.

I love my job as I get to support a range of amazing community partners, such as adventure playgrounds, schools, parks and community centres and gardens. It’s a real privilege to be part of a movement that’s working hard to protect Islington’s limited green spaces for everyone!

In my own time, I enjoy running, baking, exploring new places with my camera, and volunteering for my sister’s charity, Therapies Unite.

Marija Mikne
Senior Project Manager

I organise business skills volunteering activities where volunteers use their existing skills and expertise to support the strategic and operational challenges faced by community organisations.

Meeting the fantastic local community organisations that do such amazing work around Islington and beyond, and meeting volunteers who are interested in learning about the community sector and making the difference are parts of my role that excite and energise me the most.

In my spare time I enjoy learning about languages and etymologies of words, going on walking tours and exploring new places, and I’m partial to spending hours watching animal (mainly dog) videos!

Maria Tonchievici

Deputy Head of Programmes - Education &
Mentoring Works

I joined the BIG Alliance team in June 2021. I oversee the mentoring programme in Islington through which corporate volunteers give their time to the community to mentor Year 10 students. This way we contribute to supporting young people to be fully prepared and equipped for the fast changing of the world of work.

I have always been passionate about working with young people and helping them to thrive and discover themselves. That is why I look forward to supporting students in Islington schools and ensure they benefit from being part of the Mentoring Works programme.

Outside work, I like volunteering, especially at major sports events (eg. Olympics, Paralympics, European Football Championships), and mentoring young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. I also enjoy travelling, learning foreign languages and discover new cultures. Reading books, listening to music, and keeping fit are among other things I like to do when I have some spare time.