A native of Armagh and a proud alumna of Queens University Belfast, Elaine Leonard, embodies the spirit of dedication and passion for her roots. Born and raised in Armagh, Elaine’s journey from her hometown to pursuing higher education in Belfast speaks volumes about her commitment to learning and personal growth.
Elaine’s fondness for English during her school years not only showcases her intellectual curiosity but also hints at her innate talent for communication and storytelling. This passion for English laid the foundation for her future endeavours, shaping her path towards a career focused on education and empowerment.
Elaine found her calling in working with adults with disabilities taking up employment as Company Manager with The Appleby Trust,– a local charity which supports the learning needs of people with disabilities in experiencing employment- in Armagh in 2006 , having previously worked as a Job Coach with the organisation where her experience volunteering with people with disabilities not only highlighted her compassion and empathy but also showcased her natural talent for understanding and improving learning outcomes for those facing challenges.
Elaine’s dedication to inclusive support shines through her work, where she found immense fulfilment in supporting adults with disabilities to reach their full potential.
Speaking to UrbanABC, Elaine is the first to admit that sometimes the pathway to your vocation is not what you imagined; “You don’t always end up on the same path you started, life sometimes dictates where you are going and while you have some control over your destiny, you have to be flexible in taking opportunities which might take you in a different direction.
“I studied Psychology at University and volunteered working with children in special education, I found I loved working with disability, especially in helping to improve learning outcomes”.
In the realm of community and voluntary work, embracing a team-centric mindset is paramount. It’s a collective effort where one must invest passion wholeheartedly into every endeavour. For Elaine working with individuals with disabilities serves as daily inspiration, igniting her purpose each morning.
“You have to understand the community and voluntary sector mindset- we are a team and put our heart into everything we do above all else- the people with disabilities I work with are the reason I get up and go to work everyday”.
Speaking of some of the hurdles of working in the voluntary sector Elaine acknowledges that funding hurdles are ever-present. While financial compensation may not match expectations, the intrinsic rewards of aiding someone in achieving their aspirations truly validate the dedication poured in by Elaine.
“You have to be resilient and be aware that funding will always be an issue, pay will never be as good as it should be but the rewards you get from helping someone meet their goals make the effort worthwhile”.
Elaine’s story is not just one of personal achievement but also a narrative of a local talent from Armagh who is making significant strides in the community. As she continues to carve her path in the world of disability support and beyond, Elaine serves as an inspiration to many, embodying the values of perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
“Life working in the voluntary sector is always difficult in particular when it comes to funding, as a Manager I have faced a number of challenges relating to funding. The most stressful time was the recent end of EU funding and the wait for confirmation to see if we had been successful in the UK governments replacement fund. Our Eu funding ended on the 31st March and we found out we had been successful on the 31st March”.
Elaine, a passionate gardener, finds solace in nurturing cut flowers in her garden. For her, gardening serves as a serene escape where she can unwind and let go of the stresses of the day. Her love for gardening goes beyond just a hobby; it’s a therapeutic retreat that allows her to reconnect with nature and find inner peace.
In addition to her green thumb, Elaine also has a keen interest in exploring the world around her. Whether it’s a quick local getaway or a more extensive adventure, she delights in experiencing new places and cultures. Travelling provides her with a fresh perspective, broadens her horizons, and adds a touch of excitement to her life.
Elaine’s dedication to her garden and her curiosity about the world reflect her vibrant spirit and zest for life. Through her gardening and travel experiences, she embodies a blend of tranquility and exploration, creating a harmonious balance between nurturing her surroundings and discovering new horizons.