Youth Music has announced that YolanDa Brown has been appointed as the charity’s new Chair.
The MOBO award-winning saxophonist, band leader, composer and broadcaster was selected following a wide-ranging recruitment process and will take up the role in January 2018. She succeeds Andy Parfitt, the current Chair, who stands down in December 2017 following five years in the role.
YolanDa Brown said:
‘I’m passionate about making sure young people have the opportunity to make music in a way that’s right for them, particularly those who, through no fault of their own, face barriers to taking part. I’m committed to helping break down these barriers and so I’m thrilled to be joining as Chair of Youth Music.
‘I know from personal experience the positive and transformative benefits of music-making. I also see the pressing need to make sure that all young people facing challenges in their lives get whatever support they need to experience these benefits. Youth Music is totally focussed on this mission and I share its goal of achieving a musically inclusive England.’
Matt Griffiths, Youth Music’s CEO, said:
‘We can’t wait to start working with YolanDa. Her combination of skills, experience and, perhaps most of all, steely determination to make a difference are perfectly suited to what we need now from our new Chair. On behalf of the Youth Music team, warm congratulations to YolanDa from us all. We look forward to her starting in January.’
Tim Berg, Trustee and Chair of the Recruitment Panel, said:
‘In the process for recruiting our new Chair, YolanDa clearly demonstrated her passion for music and young people, which is also evident in her life and career in music. YolanDa will be a great role model and entrepreneurial leader of the Youth Music board joining us at an exciting time in our development.’
Header photo: YolanDa Brown, newly appointed Chair of Youth Music © Sian Trenberth Photography
