Social impact
mentoring
Meaningful work to make a difference
Back in 2008 there was a significant gap in services for coaching to bridge the divide between therapy, counselling and wellbeing. So Illuminate Charity, CIO, was created. We grew the charity to encompass a dynamic team of coaches and trainers and over the years supported thousands of people to move forward with confidence moving into volunteering or employment.
As we became established we adapted to providing talks and training to the business community, diversifying our income to meet the growing demand for our services. Trading helped our reputation and meet the demand on our services.
After fifteen years we closed the charity in 2024, it had fulfilled its mission and met the goals and out comes we had wanted over fifteen years.
I carry forward and share the invaluable lessons and expertise in my current work. You too can read our final closing report Lessons from 15 Years of Working with people and Businesses Supporting Positive Mental Health here.
Mentoring
Running a small business whether a non-profit, social enterprise or CIO is isn't easy but you believe in the mission and making a difference ❤️
You've got the basics but you know it's not enough, at times it's overwhelming. You're working too hard, juggling, reactive decision making when you should be delegating more but to who and how.
You need to manage better and grow the team or just get some money in, it's time to go from operational to more strategic whilst working less hours - but how?
I get it, I know what it's like. The early years are tough and there's so much advice but it doesn't quite fit your situation. I can help.
I mentor solopreneurs, managers and leaders who are ready to get out of the reactive and tiring day to day work load, to develop their leadership and management skills so reducing the worry and anxiety. I offer one-on-one bespoke support to work through your leadership, people management, and strategic challenges.
You're not alone, let's talk and see if we are a good match and if I can really help. There is huge potential to maximise the positive impact of the work you do and make a difference.
Just three sessions and even in that short time Maria was so helpful. I got clear on my focus and goals on social media. I have the start of a communications plan and know what needs to happen next for my business. I'm so much clearer on where I need to focus my efforts and save time. Thank you Maria!
Schia Mitchell Sinclair, Medical Herbalist and Craniosacral Therapist
Maria helped us design and implement our Practitioners Network, we have found her very supportive and professional. She has improved our team work and helped me to manage better getting the best out of extra responsibilities and now a much valued network. I cannot stress enough how supportive she has been not only supplying training but with our one to one meetings, it's been an excellent experience and I highly recommend it to managers struggling everywhere.
S.L Cambridge
Emma Joy-Staines Director & Co Founder Steel Bones
Just wanted to say a HUGE THANK YOU to Maria the session was absolutely superb and I very much look forward to referring people to you for coaching. The workshop had a really fab energy to it, which was fully accepting and non-judgemental.