We are thrilled to welcome Tony O’Neill as VANL’s new Social Enterprise Lead. With a rich background in both social enterprise and community development, Tony brings a wealth of experience to the role. His journey in social enterprise began in 2011, and over the years, he’s navigated its challenges, even winning the Scottish Edge after several attempts. Tony is deeply passionate about creating impactful solutions for local communities and believes in the power of collaboration to drive change. His diverse career, from working in the USA with individuals with disabilities to facilitating youth and community work across Scotland, has shaped his commitment to supporting young people and families.
A word from Tony:
“My name is Tony O’Neill; I am delighted to be the Social Enterprise Lead for VANL. I have worked in the public sector since 2013 and I started my Social Enterprise Journey in 2011, although I was unaware of what social enterprise was until I had been running my own for a couple of years. I can understand the highs and lows of the journey; I have been fortunate to attend various programmes over the years and become and eventual winner of Scottish Edge after numerous attempts. I see so much potential with the NLSEN Network, with the foundations being laid by the previous group and I am excited to do what I can to bring people together to have the greatest impact on the local communities and people who need that vital support.
I have worked in USA as a lifeguard and counsellor for kids and adults with disabilities which was a great education and humbling experience that has helped shape my views on people and how important it is to be adaptable. I worked for Royston Youth Action as a Children and Young Peoples Sport Development worker which highlightled the importance of youth work and a community organisation. I worked for Street Games UK and saw the importance of grass roots sports and youth work at a National Level. I have since been working for the Social Enterprise Academy Scotland as facilitator for over 2 years, delivering workshops around social enterprise to primary and high school pupils, who have a great understanding of what is around them and showed how innovative they are to help solve life’s challenges. I have been working as a youth/well being worker in Chryston High School for over 4 years, which has highlighted the need for joined up working and collaborative work for young people and families.”
It would be great if any social enterprise organisations based in North Lanarkshire or operating within North Lanarkshire could reach out to Tony. We are keen to find out more about organisations and their social enterprise activity. We would also like to hear from any organisations who are thinking about becoming a social enterprise.
You can contact Tony by email to info@vanl.co.uk or by calling 01236 748011.
