As EMED Group’s Chief People Office, Justine has been one of the driving forces behind the EMED Foundation and has played an instrumental role in bringing the charity to life. In this Q&A, she shares her reflections, motivations and hopes for the Foundation’s impact.
What’s your favourite part of being a trustee?
Although not a trustee, I’ve been instrumentally involved in the creation of the EMED Foundation, which has been a great experience. We know this work will help support our colleagues and people within the local community. Knowing this gives me a warm feeling about the impact we can have on others through the support the Foundation will provide.
How would you describe the Foundation in three words?
Caring by gifting.
Which of our funding streams do you feel most passionate about?
Lifeline, because I know the Foundation can support colleagues who are faced with the unexpected, such as being unable to work or needing urgent medical care.
What’s one thing you’ve learned since joining the Board?
Everyone involved is genuinely passionate about the wellbeing of others and truly wants to make a difference by contributing to decisions that matter.
What kind of impact do you think the Foundation will have?
I believe the Foundation is another example of how we demonstrate our commitment to the sector we work in. Yes, we are a business, but the Foundation is a charity to help others. We are a group of people choosing to be part of a very special community by helping make a difference to people and their loved ones.
If you could instantly fund any project tomorrow, what would it be?
This is a difficult question to answer, as there are so many worthwhile causes. One immediate passion would be to support parents or guardians caring for children with severe medical conditions, where financial constraints prevent them from enjoying things their loved ones enjoy — such as having a place to play and socialise, taking day trips to the seaside, or getting a new bike.
What advice would you give someone thinking about applying for a grant?
Take your time completing the application thoroughly. Provide specific examples of the ‘why’ and the difference the Foundation’s support would make.
Why do you think support for hardship or volunteering matters?
Because there will always be people in need who aren’t as fortunate as others. Being kind, compassionate and caring should never be undervalued or overlooked. No gesture is ever too small.
What motivates you outside of work?
Living life to the full and being true to myself and those around me. I also enjoy encouraging others to embrace their own journey and to do things on their terms.
What do you do when you’re not wearing your trustee hat?
As Chief People Officer for EMED Group, my focus is on all things people-related. This includes learning and development, colleague engagement and inclusion, ways of working, and building an environment where people can thrive. When I’m not working, I’m usually walking dogs and running around after my two teenagers.
Do you have a favourite book, film or podcast that inspires you?
I’m drawn to motivational speakers and content about mindset and habit change. I’m hugely interested in what motivates people and how that affects others. I also love The Wizard of Oz and Annie, which I watched many times as a child and still hold very fond memories of.
Finish this sentence: “The EMED Foundation is…”
“…a wonderful opportunity to positively contribute and help others who are either in need of support or who have a passion for a chosen charity, whether that’s to support their own values or for very personal reasons.”
