Jo Egan

What inspired you to join OnSide? 

I’ve worked in the third sector for the past 20+ years, and there’s been a common thread of young people and youth work throughout every role I’ve had, inspired by my own experience of accessing youth work support as a young carer.  I had already witnessed the brilliant work of the OnSide Youth Zones in a previous role in the youth sector, so when I saw this role come up at OnSide, which combines my passion for the power of youth work, inclusion, and network development, I jumped at the chance to do this dream job!

What’s been a memorable moment you’ve had working with the team?  

I come away from every Youth Zone visit feeling inspired, but on my second day after starting at OnSide I attended a meeting with all the Youth Zone CEOs – I was struck by the depth and breadth of experience and passion they all brought and remember thinking how lucky I am to get to work with and support this fantastic group of people!

What was the first Youth Zone you visited and what did you think?  

The first Youth Zone I visited was Wigan, when I was working at another youth charity.  I was blown away by the skills of the staff I met with and the tangible buzz I witnessed from the young people engaging with them across all the amazing spaces that a Youth Zone has to offer.

What would be your go-to Youth Zone room and why?

Probably the art room – I love getting creative and messy, and the transformation you see when young people get the opportunity to connect with creativity in a supportive environment. 

Tell us a fun fact about yourself

I once walked the 100-mile South Downs Way over 5 days for charity – I’ve never had such sore feet, but the £2,500 sponsorship I raised was a great motivation!