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Team and governance.

Meet the people connecting our community and helping turn goodwill into action.

Portrait of Nicky Twemlow MBE

Nicky Twemlow MBE

Group Chair

Nicky leads Made in Stoke alongside her role as CEO of YMCA North Staffordshire. Her work brings partners together around philanthropy, youth opportunity and community development. She received an MBE in 2026 for her service to philanthropy and the community in Stoke-on-Trent.

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Portrait of Dwain McDonald

Dwain McDonald

Executive Lead

Dwain has strong family roots in Stoke-on-Trent and a career in the logistics and parcels industry, including DPD. He brings international advisory experience to Made in Stoke, working with local partners to strengthen connections and create opportunities for the city.

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Portrait of Deborah Sanderson

Deborah Sanderson

Director of Development and External Relations

Born and raised in Stoke-on-Trent, Deborah brings experience in fundraising, marketing, philanthropy and alumni relations. She builds relationships with donors, businesses and partners, connecting their support with opportunities for the city and its communities.

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Portrait of Sam Evans

Sam Evans

Head of Operations

Deeply passionate about making a real difference in Stoke-on-Trent, Sam Evans brings over 12 years of experience in bringing people together through philanthropy, alumni engagement, and relationship building. With a background spanning Higher Education and the banking sector, she loves nothing more than turning meaningful connections into positive, tangible outcomes for the community. Whether she is coordinating fundraising initiatives, leading high-profile campaigns, or supporting local events, Sam approaches her work with creativity, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others succeed.

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