Meet the We Make Camden Kit Panel
2025 - 2026
We’re often asked who the amazing people who make the decision on applications to the We Make Camden Kit are. As you should know, we use participatory grant making here at Camden Giving, so whilst the staff team here do everything else, the one thing we don’t do, is decide on where funding goes. The job is reserved for our panelists, your Camden peers. Each grant fund has it’s own panel, made up of Camden citizens, potentially your neighbours, who convene to discuss and judge the applications we receive here.
So without further ado rum roll please…
Alvi
Why did you become a panelist?
I’ve always been passionate about helping my community and by being part of a Camden giving panel I feel like I can now make a huge impact and watch how my decisions affect the community in real time.
What We Make Camden Kit Mission are you most passionate about?
I’m most passionate about young people as I’m a young person myself and I feel like our opinions and ideas aren’t heard enough so I want to help change this.
Best advice for someone applying?
My advice for someone applying would be to not be afraid to voice your ideas and highlight your passion for creating positive change in the community and mainly just be yourself.
Avi
Why did you become a panelist?
I grew up in Camden and have lived here most of my life. I wanted to become a panelist to be part of a team making a difference and bringing about equality in our borough.
What We Make Camden Kit Mission are you most passionate about?
It's hard to choose one mission: I've worked in the education and charity sectors, with a long standing passion for the environment, celebrating diversity and creating opportunities for young people.
Best advice for someone applying?
If you're thinking of applying, go for it . You'll be part of an amazing team of passionate local individuals who bring great insight into the Camden Giving process.
Farhana
Why did you become a panellist?
To help shape a Camden that truly reflects and includes the voices of our diverse communities.
What We Make Camden Kit Mission are you most passionate about?
Estates and Neighbourhoods – I believe strong, inclusive local spaces are the heart of a thriving Camden.
Best advice for someone applying?
Be bold, be real, and show how your idea connects people and uplifts the community.
Fateha
Why did you choose to become a panelist?
I wanted to be part of something meaningful that gives back to the community and helps support people who don’t always get heard.
What We Make Camden Kit Mission are you most passionate about?
Diversity. It’s something I really care about. I think it’s so important that everyone feels seen, represented, and included.
Best advice for someone applying?
Be yourself and be clear about what difference your idea will make. Show your passion, and don’t hold back.
Hdayet
Why did you choose to become a panelist?
I became a panellist because I'm passionate about giving back to the community and super interested in the work Camden Giving does.
What We Make Camden Kit Mission are you most passionate about?
I'm most passionate about the Estates and Neighbourhood mission as I feel this is where community cohesions begins.
Best advice for someone applying?
My advice for applying is to be your best, genuine self when applying (show your own personality as this is what will make you stand out)!
Helal
Why did you choose to become a panelist?
To gain insight into the funding application process.
What We Make Camden Kit Mission are you most passionate about?
For me it is area of diversity. I love that Camden has a rich mix of people. On the whole we all tend to get alone. Showcasing diversity gives us insight into our neighbours and fosters better understanding.
Best advice for someone applying?
Your voice and opinion really does count. Applying for this role is empowering and leads to new opportunities. Bring your voice and your life experiences, all are welcome.
Jessi
Why did you choose to become a panellist?
To give back to the borough that raised me
What We Make Camden Kit Mission are you most passionate about?
This is super hard to choose as a disabled and neurodivergent, queer and non-binary trans person who grew up on an estate and received free school meals, and who (alongside being a performer and writer) now works with organisations as a consultant and researcher on equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility in employment - because it means all the Missions are important to me! However, I wouldn't be doing the work I do now (especially artistically and creatively) without the opportunities I had as a young person, so I think I'm most passionate about supporting future generations of young people.
Best advice for someone applying?
Camden Giving genuinely want people who can bring their lived experiences to the panels and who are passionate about supporting others, so share your story and your perspectives from your heart and soul - you are welcome and wanted in the community
Mese
Why did you choose to become a panelist?
To be able to give a fair decision to those who need the most and appropriately, following what impact it has for the community to help them access and use the services wisely matters.
Mo
Why did you choose to become a panelist?
To have a greater insight and involvement with the great work Camden Giving has been doing. Also gives me the network and pathway to help set up a CIC-.
What We Make Camden Kit Mission are you most passionate about?
The greater impact in estates and neighbourhoods and creating more integration through diversity.
Best advice for someone applying?
Don't worry, for them to be here surrounded by others- they should take comfort in people who are in the same boat with the same interests
Natlee
Why did you choose to become a panelist?
Being a panellist give me the chance to share my experience whlie also learning from the views of others and I want to use my voice to represent people who may not always feel heard
What We Make Camden Kit Mission are you most passionate about?
I feel most passionate about the Diversity in Positions of Power mission because I believe leadership should represent everyone in the community. Too often, some voices are left out of important decisions. By creating space for people from different backgrounds to take on leadership roles, we can make fairer choices and stronger solutions. For me, it’s about breaking down barriers, making sure people feel heard, and showing that anyone can have the chance to lead and make a difference
Best advice for someone applying?
My advice is to keep your idea clear, simple, and realistic. Show how it connects to the Camden mission and explain who will benefit. Share your passion for the project and don’t be afraid to be your authentic self — that’s what really makes an application stand out.
Sumaya
Why did you choose to become a panelist?
I became a panelist to feel more connected to my borough. Seeing firsthand how funding can empower grassroots projects made me want to better understand the process.
What We Make Camden Kit Mission are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about the Young People mission because young people are the future.
Best advice for someone applying?
Trust in your experiences, big or small, and share them with confidence and passion.
Tracy
Why did you choose to become a panelist?
I became a panellist, as I feel I bring lived experiences. I’m passionate about improving the lives of everyone in Camden
What We Make Camden Kit Mission are you most passionate about?
Young People
Best advice for someone applying?
Go for it!