Senior Programme Manager / AI Opportunity Fund: Europe Lead
Helen was awarded a BA in Politics and Economics from the University of Manchester. The title of her undergrad dissertation was ‘What have been the effects of the Good Friday Agreement on LGBTQ liberation in Northern Ireland?’ and she has always been interested in the relationship between government and marginalised groups.
She joined the CPI team in 2022.
During her time at Tech for Social Good: Europe, Helen supported Google.org in providing funding to 20 incredible organisations that are innovating within their communities around economic justice, sustainability, and disinformation. This project reinforced her belief in technology as a transformative force for good, and the ingenuity of social innovators
In her role as a Tech Mentor for the Comic Relief Specialist Support Fund, Helen assisted specialist domestic violence organisations in the UK to enhance their digital resilience. She worked directly with eight organisations to improve their digital operations, develop digital services, enhance their online presence, and manage their data more effectively using CRMs. Notably, Helen collaborated with the Emily Davison Centre to establish LovingMe, the UK’s first trans-specific domestic abuse service.
At MSI Reproductive Choices, Helen supported the development of a digital strategy for MSI Reproductive Choices (formerly Marie Stopes UK). This involved integrating digital solutions into the journeys of individuals seeking reproductive healthcare, including abortions and vasectomies. The project took on additional significance when the abortion ban in Northern Ireland was overturned midway through our work, making their efforts particularly poignant and impactful.
Helen is passionate about using technology to make a positive impact and push the limits of what’s possible. She believes in amplifying overlooked voices and ensuring that innovation is fair and inclusive. She states that marginalised communities have significantly shaped technology, often without the recognition they deserve.
As the lead for the AI Opportunity Fund: Europe, in partnership with Google.org, Helen has the incredible opportunity to improve access to AI education and skills. The team’s goal is to ensure that the benefits of AI are shared equitably, creating lasting positive outcomes for underserved communities by providing essential AI skills.
A key part of the AI Opportunity Fund is breaking down barriers to AI education. The team address social, cultural, financial, and access-related challenges to make AI learning accessible to everyone. By working with organizations deeply connected to these communities, they ensure that their training programs are meaningful and impactful.
In her leisure time, Helen really enjoys team sports, such as football and hockey. She also loves walks in nature with her wife and their whippet, Sadie.