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Voices from Northern Ireland’s charity trustees

When breast cancer charity Pretty 'n' Pink (NIC102659) put out a call for new trustees earlier this year, Belfast man Chris Love and Madeleine Hanna from Lisburn decided to step forward. Several months on, they are both still serving on the board and helping to guide the charity's work.

Here, as part of Trustees' Week 2026 (9-13 November), they reflect on their experiences of becoming trustees, what they have learned so far and what advice they would give others.

If you're interested in becoming a trustee, the Commission's Running your charity guides are a great place to start. They provide practical information on who can become a trustee, the responsibilities involved and what you can expect from the role.

  • What inspired you to become a charity trustee?

    Breast cancer has affected so many people I know, and I've seen the impact a diagnosis can have not only on the individual but also on their family and loved ones.

    My connection with Pretty ’n’ Pink actually goes back to 2011, when I completed my university work placement with the charity, helping to organise events and fundraising activities. It was a fantastic experience and gave me an insight into the incredible work the charity does and the difference it makes to people affected by breast cancer.

    When the opportunity arose to become a trustee, it felt like a lovely way to reconnect with a charity I'd been involved with all those years ago, while giving something back to a cause that means a lot to me.

    I'm really proud to now be part of the team helping to support breast cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland.

    What have you learned so far?

    One of the biggest things I've learned is the importance of teamwork and the shared responsibility that comes with being a trustee.

    We recently celebrated Pretty ’n’ Pink's 20th anniversary with a fantastic gala ball (which is where my picture is from), and it was amazing to see how many people came together to make the evening such a success. Everyone brought different skills, ideas and experiences, but we were all working towards the same goal.

    Before joining the board, I was a little apprehensive about the responsibilities involved, particularly around finances, governance and the procedures required to run a charity effectively.

    However, I've learned that being a trustee isn't about knowing everything from day one. It's about working together, learning from one another and using our individual strengths to support the charity's mission.

    What advice would you give someone considering becoming a trustee?

    I would really encourage younger people to consider becoming charity trustees.

    It's a great opportunity to learn from people with different backgrounds and experiences, develop new skills and gain a real sense of fulfilment from contributing to something meaningful.

    I also think younger trustees can bring fresh ideas and different perspectives to a board, which is incredibly valuable.

    From my own experience so far, I've been made to feel genuinely welcome and part of the team. It's rewarding to know that my voice and contributions are valued and that, together, we're helping make a difference to people who need support. 

     

  • When did you become a trustee and what inspired you to take on the role?

    I joined the board of Pretty ’n’ Pink after being involved with the charity for many years, including providing PR and communications support. I was also a friend of Noleen, the charity’s late founder, so the organisation and the work it does have always meant a great deal to me.

    Becoming a trustee felt like an opportunity to step up and contribute in a more meaningful way, helping to keep Noleen’s vision alive while supporting her sister Leanne, who now leads the charity.

    Pretty ’n’ Pink has grown significantly in recent years, and the Board has an important role in supporting that growth strategically and ensuring the charity can continue making a difference for patients and their families affected by breast cancer in Northern Ireland.

    What have you learned so far?

    One of the biggest things I’ve learned is the value of having different people around the table. Every trustee brings their own skills, knowledge, professional experience and perspective, and we all learn from and support one another.

    There are no egos. It is about leaning in when your expertise can help, listening when someone else knows more than you do, and collectively making the best decisions for the charity. You don’t have to know everything to be a good trustee. The strength of a Board comes from what everyone contributes together.

    What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a trustee?

    Firstly, be honest with yourself about whether you have the time to commit. Charities need trustees who are prepared to get involved, contribute and make a difference.

    I’d also encourage people to find a cause they genuinely care about. That personal connection makes giving your time and expertise incredibly rewarding.

    If you’re interested but not sure whether trusteeship is for you, consider something like the Boardroom Apprentice programme. It can be a fantastic way to gain skills and experience of what it means to serve on a Board.

    Most importantly, don’t assume that being a trustee isn’t for you. Boards need people from all walks of life, with different careers, experiences, backgrounds and perspectives. Everyone has something worthwhile to contribute.

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