Trustees play a vital role in providing strategic guidance and governance, ensuring charities can deliver essential services to communities across Ireland. This Giving Tuesday we’re shining a light on Boards of Trustees across the country. Here we chat to Martina Quinn, a Board Member with Women’s Aid.

Can you tell us a little about you?

I'm the founder and CEO of Alice Public Relations, where our purpose is to create change that makes Ireland - and the world - a better place. We do this by delivering ambitious communications campaigns for our clients. Since Alice PR was established, we have delivered successful campaigns on gender equality, reproductive rights, climate action, integration, children’s rights, employment and training opportunities, LGBTQ+ rights, health awareness and more.

What inspired you to become a Charity Trustee?

One of the things that inspired me to become a Charity Trustee was the example that I saw from my own parents growing up. They were both always heavily involved in the local community at home, and indeed they still are now.

What did you find most surprising about becoming a Trustee?

I have definitely had the imposter syndrome of joining a new board, feeling that I was going to be the least qualified person on it, that I didn’t know enough about the topic, or that the others were all going to be so intimidating. And that has never been the case.

What one word would you use to sum up being a Trustee?

Learning.

Ready to put your hand up and join a charity board? Find out more at www.charitiesinstitute.ie.