Patrick Ball
Patrick Ball
ESOL Tutor: Born in Sheffield
I was born and raised in Sheffield, and studied in London before moving to Philadelphia, USA, to do a PhD in philosophy. While I was in America I realised that I want to be an English teacher, and I taught ESOL in Sheffield and in Kyoto, Japan, before joining Nova in North Kensington in 2024. I am excited to be a small part of a wonderful community.
Esther Ameyinoge
Esther Ameyinoge
Programme Officer: Born in South London
Born and raised in South London to a vibrant Nigerian household, with interests in international development, advocating for the marginalised, and all things chocolate!
Coming from a background in working with charities, education and social enterprises, I am pleased to be a part of an organisation such as Nova.
Anya Stojanovic Chand
Anya Stojanovic Chand
ESOL Tutor: Born in Bosnia and Herzegovina
I am a Business English trainer, very fond of my sessions with my students, where we explore topics like Millennials in the work place, Work aspects of Social Media, Work place diversity, Democracy and all other aspects of modern society and work culture. I love the uniqueness (individuality) of each and every student, the flair they bring with them, and I am committed to help them expand on their potentials. My background is in engineering and IT but I am also very passionate about exploring literature and languages. In my spare time I write crime novels and film scripts. I was born in Sarajevo. The word “saray” in Turkish means “palace”.
Iden Obahiagbon
Iden Obahiagbon
IAG Adviser: Born in Wales
Welsh born, London raised. From a mixed English and Nigerian household.
After my degree in Psychology, I mostly worked in schools with vulnerable students with SEN and behavioural needs. I enjoyed working 1-1 with students, supporting their mental wellbeing and helping them achieve their goals. Through working in the school, I discovered my interest in pursuing a Counselling and Psychotherapy Masters. I joined Nova because I was intrigued by their approach and commitment to growth, promoting equal opportunities and welcoming attitude towards their clients. I look forward to developing my interpersonal skills and make a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
Katya Elina
Katya Elina
Head of Services: Born in Leningrad
Born and raised in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg), Russia, to a family with many generations of educators. While studying mathematics at university, fell in love with teaching and have been working in education ever since. London has been my home for the past 20 years – its diversity and bustle remind me of my home city.
Mayte Bologna
Mayte Bologna
Consultant: Born in Venezuela
I am an experienced Designer and Creative Project Manager focused on creating compelling brands with memorable experiences and innovative projects that drive positive change.
I initially joined Nova as a volunteer, and have led the creative production of TEDxLadbrokeGrove, as well as boosting Nova’s social media presence and co-developed “The School of Humanity” events which have welcomed hundreds of attendees. When I'm not crafting brands, you can find me making art from non-recyclable materials, trying new recipes, reading non-fiction, or searching for inspiration through international travel.
Tom Charles
Tom Charles
Trusts & Foundations Officer: Born in Sheffield
Born in Sheffield to working class British, hippyish parents. I grew up in a city in managed decline, learning the importance of solidarity and loyalty, and the transcendent power of kindness. My journey has taken me to various stop-off points, geographically, ideologically and spiritually, but North Kensington, where I arrived in 2007, is the place I feel most at home because of its beautiful spirit: multicultural, diverse, vibrant and bohemian.
Moira Conway
Moira Conway
English Tutor: Born in Geneva
Born in Geneva to British parents, with primary schooling in French leading to a lifetime’s interest in languages and travel. I gained a degree in Modern Chinese Studies, followed soon after by a Shanghainese husband and an extensive second family in China. Now firmly rooted in London and recycling the language skills to throw a spotlight on English and explore the expressive potential of both the language and our lovely learners.