Alumni Community
Five minutes with... Mike Smith-Clare MBE BA (Hons) Humanities, 1992
“ I loved my time at University. It helped me grow in confidence and establish a framework of knowledge and thirst for learning which I still rely on today.”
Mike Smith-Clare has established two national awardwinning training providers, Blue Cat Initiative and the Bread Kitchen, which work with deprived and disengaged communities to develop self-esteem, independence and aspiration. Alongside these, he has developed qualifications which have supported volunteers and mentors across the third sector. His work has been recognised with numerous awards, including an MBE in the Queen’s 2017 New Year's Honours for Services to the Education of Vulnerable and Disadvantaged People in Norfolk. This year Mike was elected as the Labour Councillor for Great Yarmouth and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from UWL. What does a typical day look like for you? There’s no such thing. I’m always up before 7.00am and I don’t seem to finish much before 8.00pm. Through the Bread Kitchen we run community engagement courses, which tend to be delivered in blocks of ten weeks. So one day I might be leading on our allotment project, running a well walk and then chairing meetings – the next I could be organising volunteers at a local museum. My work as a Labour County Councillor and Children’s Services Committee member also impacts on daily timetables. What do you love most about your job? I love the variety and the ability to engage, support and empower local communities, many of which have been marginalised by poverty, lack of investment and opportunity. It’s incredible to work collectively in order to create solutions to problems. I’m an ideas person and believe that anything can be achieved or improved if you put in the effort. I also adore watching projects grow and become successful and sustainable. What is your least favourite part of the job? Paperwork! Although my partner and colleagues ensure I acknowledge its importance. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? I love walking, travel, family outings and anything involving history. I’m also a keen artist and am fascinated by architecture and design. We have our own allotment and one day I’m determined to keep goats and make cheese.
What would you have liked to have done if you hadn’t taken this career path? I still dream about being an architect. I once assisted an architect in designing a community learning centre and I enjoyed every second of my time on the project. The only downside was having to climb up to the chimney pots and panicking that I might never be able to get down. Three words to describe yourself? Tenacious, enthusiastic and creative. What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in life? Not to give up! A good idea is a good idea, no matter what others might say, although it might not be quite time. You might be knocked or ignored – but you must never stop believing. Who or what inspires you? Nelson Mandela. I am fascinated by politics and the power of change through spirit and collective belief. Our world is constantly changing for the better and that can only happen through the bravery and commitment of certain individuals. What has been your proudest achievement? Personally: having children. Professionally: creating change through nationally acclaimed projects. I was also incredibly proud at being chosen as the Labour candidate for Great Yarmouth in the recent general election. What impact did your time at TVU have on you? I loved my time at University. It helped me grow in confidence and establish a framework of knowledge and thirst for learning which I still rely on today. It also made me realise the importance of quality education in the heart of an established community. What advice would you give to students who are about to graduate? Talk to family, friends and staff and use their knowledge – and yours – to take the best next step. Be confident in your own ability and be prepared to market yourself. Finally, you might not fall into your preferred career immediately after graduation; so if you have to wait, use that time effectively. Volunteer, work, care and make the change that won't just impact on your life, but on the lives of others.
37