Founder

Job Role: Programme Manager for the Civil Service

Preferred Pronouns: He / Him

Why did you want to join The Philosophers' Yard? To grow in wisdom and to see life from different perspectives

Which philosophical thought/ idea most resonates with you? "The universe is change, life is judgement" - Marcus Aurelius

Trustee

Role on the Team: Trustee

External Job: Operations Manager at the University of Birmingham 

Preferred Pronouns: She/Her

Why did you want to join The Philosophers' Yard? I love having thought provoking discussions with others, learning new things and being prompted to question my mindset, I thought this was the perfect way to do it!  

Which philosophical thought/ idea most resonates with you? 'Don't worry, be happy.'

Trustee

External Job: Head of Operations, University of Birmingham

Preferred Pronouns: She/her

Why did you want to join The Philosophers' Yard? One of my core values is growth and by joining The Philosopher’s Yard, I’m able to enhance my understanding of life’s big questions and enter into dialogue with like-minded people. 

Which philosophical thought/ idea most resonates with you? Every decision should make the world a better place.

Trustee

Job Role: Lecturer in Theology and Ethics, University of Edinburgh

Preferred Pronouns: She/Her

Why did you want to join The Philosophers' Yard? To have the space to discuss complex issues in a respectful and honest environment and to hear different perspectives.

Which philosophical thought/ idea most resonates with you? "Love your neighbour as yourself" - Mark 12:31

Volunteer | Meetup Coordinator

University Subject: Computer Science

Preferred Pronouns: He/Him

Why did you want to join The Philosophers' Yard? I have a passion for creating spaces and opportunities for people to connect.

Which philosophical thought/ idea most resonates with you? ‘’In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer’’- Albert Camus

Volunteer | Strategy & Delivery | Web-Dev

University Subject: Computer Science BSc

Preferred Pronouns: He/Him

Why did you want to join The Philosophers' Yard? After attending the first sessions of the Philosophers Yard, I was struck by the fascinating speakers and enlightening conversations - both of which I enjoyed very much. I wanted to give back to this wonderful community and help it flourish into something that can benefit everyone.

Which philosophical thought/ idea most resonates with you? “The central ally of a philosopher is Truth; their greatest tool, Wisdom; and their driving force is always Love.”

Volunteer | Strategy & Delivery

University subject: BA Politics and International Relations

Preferred Pronouns: She/Her

Why did you want to join The Philosophers' Yard? I had been looking for a space where people are open to have real, thought-provoking conversations, exploring why we think and live the way we do. I love using what I learn to build connections that help people understand themselves and each other - especially across generations.

Which philosophical thought/ idea most resonates with you? “When we choose to love, we choose to move against fear, against alienation and separation. The choice to love is a choice to connect - to find ourselves in the other.” — bell hooks, All About Love: New Visions

Volunteer | Design & Delivery

Job Role: Programme Admin in the NHS.

Preferred Pronouns: She/her

Why did you want to join The Philosophers' Yard? To explore strange new worlds

Which philosophical thought/ idea most resonates with you? “Life is warfare, and a visit to a strange land; the only lasting fame is oblivion” - Marcus Aurelius

Volunteer | Delivery

Job Role: Support Worker

Preferred Pronouns: She/Her

Why did you want to join The Philosophers' Yard? I thought it was a cool concept and enjoyed socialising and meeting people at my first event! I felt very comfortable and liked the people so decided to volunteer! I've wanted to volunteer for something different other than caring for people :)

Which philosophical thought/ idea most resonates with you? ‘The courage to be disliked’

Education Facilitator

University subject: Philosophy

Preferred Pronouns: She/Her

Why did you want to join The Philosophers' Yard? To share my passion for philosophy with others.

Which philosophical thought/ idea most resonates with you? Never presume.

Volunteer | Business Development & Engagement

University subject: Modern Languages with Business Management

Preferred Pronouns: She/Her

Why did you want to join The Philosophers' Yard? I wanted to contribute to TPY's work creating open spaces for meaningful conversation.

Which philosophical thought/ idea most resonates with you? There’s always more you can learn.