We’re pleased to introduce Karen Leiserach, our newly appointed Membership Secretary…
“Hello! – In the Isle of Man, I’m semi-retired and am qualified as a Dementia Practitioner. I have worked full time in healthcare in the Isle of Man since gaining my UK Masters Degree, working for the Isle of Man Government, now under the umbrella of Manx Care.
My background in the UK, was in Business and Industry where I used my other professional Masters Qualification working in the City of London and latterly in the NHS in London and Oxford.
I support the SftD Sailing Programme with my skills with Event Management, Socials, Fundraising and Sailing. I also am the Lead Gardener in a Charity run Community garden in the South of the island.
My passion is promoting and supporting ‘the spirit of service’ no matter what sphere of life (I seem to find myself!). When I joined Sailing for the Disabled in 2020, I immediately recognised that my passion was transferrable to the provision of sailing for enabled members by helping to create inclusive opportunities and being encouraged to the immediate positive impact it has on individuals. Never having set foot on a yacht before I was encouraged by two members by the cunning ploy of ‘helping out’. I loved it from the get go!
It’s never too late to learn and my personal development, through SftD, has been re-kindled: completing RYA Sailing Courses, obtaining a VHF Certificate, and Power Boat handling. My IT skills are sharpening up and though increased activity and connection my health has improved beyond belief!”