Who we are: a community built around sight loss

Hi, I’m John. I first became involved with MySight York in early 2023, serving as Treasurer and later Chair. After stepping down in Autumn 2024 to pursue some travel opportunities, I was delighted to re-join the charity this autumn and support MySight York once again as Chair.

Before retiring, I spent many years working for Blind Veterans UK, having previously held roles within social care charities, advocacy organisations, and the RNIB. My career originally began in horticulture, growing plants for garden centres, before moving into education as a lecturer in commercial horticulture.

Having been sight impaired throughout my life, I understand first-hand the importance of organisations such as MySight York and the vital support they provide. Receiving the right support at the right time can make a tremendous difference to someone’s life.

Together with my fellow Trustees, staff, and volunteers, I am committed to helping MySight York continue its valuable work and support more local people affected by sight loss.

Outside of MySight York, I enjoy the ongoing restoration of our 1870s home, a project that never seems to run out of new challenges.

Hi, I am Annette Gamston and I have been a trustee of MySight York since 2019. I am a Yorkshire lass, born in Ripon and, having lived all over the country, find myself back in glorious Yorkshire with my partner, his son and Jennie the cat. As a project manager who has worked across multiple industries, I am lucky enough to have had some great roles and it feels right to give back. I wanted to work with a local charity and, as I have family members with eyesight challenges, MySight seemed the ideal fit.

I enjoy spending time with likeminded people in support of MySight and helping MySight to run effectively so that the staff team can get on and deliver what they do so brilliantly. Away from MySight, I am still a freelance project manager. Family wise, we are often outside, cycling, walking, camping, gardening etc. Indoors, we all love reading, films, cooking and a bit of DIY on our old house.

Hello, I’m Beth and I joined MySight York as a Trustee in January 2025. I am an environmental researcher and project manager who believes in designing a word where people and nature can live well.

I joined the board because I believe in MySight York’s mission. As someone who has lived with uveitis and glaucoma, I understand first-hand some of the challenges of navigating healthcare, accessibility, and everyday life with sight loss. I hope to use this lived experience to help ensure MySight York continues to be truly responsive to our community’s needs.

Outside of trustee work, I love being active and outdoors whenever I can, whether that’s working on my allotment, walking, or practicing yoga. I’m excited to support MySight York’s future and play a part in making a difference for others living with sight loss.

Hi, I’m Lisa and I joined MySight York as a Trustee in May 2024. I moved to York as a student, and loved it so much I’ve never left! I’ve worked in Adult Social Care for over 30 years, as a social worker and then in management roles. I’m passionate about enabling people to live their lives the way they want, as independently as possible.

I really enjoy being a MySight York Trustee because it gives me a way to use my skills and knowledge to help make a difference for others in my local area – as well as giving me the opportunity to learn from others experiences. I also love spending time with my family, playing board games and talking about all things Disney!

Hello, I’m Iain Mitchell. I moved to York in 2021 during the pandemic to help establish a network of Sight Loss Councils across Yorkshire, giving visually impaired people a stronger voice in their local communities. Visually impaired since birth, I’m now registered as severely sight impaired. This has never stopped me from living the life I choose or recognising the importance of independence and accessibility for all.

I was delighted to join the MySight York Board of Trustees at the start of 2024, having seen first-hand the vital role the organisation plays in supporting people living with sight loss across the city. Professionally, I work in the sight loss sector as a Senior Engagement Manager, where I’m passionate about creating a fairer society that enables blind and partially sighted people to access goods, services, and opportunities on an equal basis. I bring my lived experience and professional perspective to ensure the Board’s decisions reflect the needs and voices of people with sight loss.

Outside of work, I enjoy going to the theatre and walking my dog, Blue, who is a rescue dog from the Dog’s Trust. I’m also an avid Liverpool fan and a proud season ticket holder – YNWA.

Hello! I’m Chris, an arts leader who cares deeply about creating experiences where people feel welcome, represented and able to get involved. As Operations Manager at the National Centre for Early Music in York, I oversee venue activities, audience experience and the day‑to‑day running of the organisation, with a big focus on accessibility, inclusion and thoughtful design.

I’m also Treasurer and Trustee of Leeds Baroque Choir and Orchestra (where I play the harpsichord and chamber organ), and I coordinate volunteers for the York Health and Arts Mela. My background spans the arts, heritage and charity sectors, and I’m especially passionate about community‑focused work, good financial practice and supporting volunteers.

Hello, I’m Joey and I joined MySight York as a trustee in July 2026.

I moved to the UK from Canada in 2022, and to York in 2024. I’ve been visually impaired since birth, and a combination of willpower and lifelong support from organisations such as MySight York have enabled me to successfully live an independent life. I joined the Board to support and promote the important work the organisation does in facilitating independence amongst others like myself.  My goal is to ensure that the organisation’s work continues to reflect the needs of an increasingly diverse community of people with sight loss in York.

My day job is in government policy delivery, and outside of work I am a huge foodie, enjoy attending movies and theatre, and exploring the world.

Hi, I’m Ebony and I’m a Trustee and Finance Lead at MySight York. I work in finance so help to support organisations in understanding and manage their money and resources efficiently.

MySight York’s work supporting people with sight loss is personal to me and incredibly important, and I’m excited about the opportunity to combine my experience in finance with the charity’s work. I enjoy being part of a group of people who are all bringing different skills and perspectives to the same goal.

I’m a graduate of the University of Sheffield with my degree being in History so naturally I’m an avid reader! I’m also a huge sports fan and I enjoy travelling and getting involved in my local community.