Natalia Nikolaeva has over 20 years experience in charity work. She completed university at the Saint-Petersburg State University of Culture and Arts earning her a degree in organising cultural events. Natalia established the Russian Immigrants Association (Unique Community's previous name) in 1999 after arriving in the UK a few years earlier. During the following 20 years she gained extra qualifications in Business Administration, Advice and Guidance and in Creative Leadership from Middlesex University which helped her become an expert in and assisting immigrants and refugees assimilate in the UK. Natalia is a strong believer in the power of community arts to help inspire, connect and empower people to live more fulfilled lives, both locally and beyond.
‍natalia.nikolaeva@uniquecommunity.org.

Nataliya Kharina trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and at the International School of Corporeal Mime earning her the credentials needed to become a skilled arts practitioner. Following her studies she travelled around Europe, Asia and Australia managing and delivering community arts projects with adults and young people. During her travels Nataliya gained vast experience of working with people of all abilities and from all backgrounds. Nataliya has  worked extensively with; Haringey Shed, WCTT Young Actors Company and the Baked Bean Company as a Director and Facilitator. She specialises in facilitating inclusive and accessible environments to create daring, high quality and hopeful art.
‍natalia.kharina@uniquecommunity.org.

Lizzie trained as a Music Therapist at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and has worked with community groups, schools and the NHS. She is also an experienced workshop facilitator, having worked on a wide range of projects across the UK and Europe. She is particularly interested in how the arts can be used to empower young people and help them flourish.  She performs regularly as a musician and is passionate about Jazz and Brazilian music.
Music Therapist & Wellbeing Officer

Florentina is an Actor, Freelance Drama Facilitator, assistant, and National Youth Theatre member. Florentina has a First Class BA (hons) degree in Acting from Falmouth University. Florentina also studied Acting at Westerdals Oslo ACT whilst completing her research project ‘Approaches to Shakespeare in Norway’. Florentina has worked with S.P.I.D Theatre Company, Marylebone Theatre and Leaf Drama. She currently splits her time with Unique Community & MIND in east London.
Arts Facilitator & Community Outreach Coordinator

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