We’re so pleased to welcome Esther Ardagh-Ptolomey to our team, as Head of Operations. Esther’s expertise spans financial management, community development, and driving systemic change. Passionate about empowering communities and creating meaningful impact, she is driven by AzuKo’s mission of improving living conditions and tackling poverty through participatory design.
Hear from Esther…
Tell us a little about yourself, and your passions
I bring over 20 years of experience in charity leadership and operations, with a strong focus on strategic planning, governance, and stakeholder engagement.
I’ve worked with some wonderful organisations, large and small, such as Shelter, RSPCA, Freegle, and AbScent. I enjoy travel abroad, and when in the UK I'm often found travelling around in my caravan with my mischievous rescue dog from Greece.
What inspires you about AzuKo?
For me, the primary appeal of AzuKo is its emphasis on collaboration, listening to communities, and co-creating solutions. As an approach, I find this far more powerful than imposing solutions to problems as they may be perceived from the 'outside'.
What are you most excited about for AzuKo’s work and impact in 2025?
“I’m excited to see how our projects empower even more communities to take ownership of their living conditions. From sustainable housing solutions to innovative partnerships, I look forward to seeing the ripple effects of our work.”
What challenges lie ahead this year for charities like AzuKo?
Charities face mounting challenges such as reduced funding, rising operational costs, and a growing demand for services. The current economic climate means we need to be more innovative and resourceful than ever, finding new ways to maximise impact with limited resources.
Where do you hope AzuKo will be in 10 years?
AzuKo will be a global leader in participatory design, inspiring others to prioritise community-led solutions. I’d love to see AzuKo working in new regions, building strong networks, and continuing to achieve a measurable improvement in housing conditions.
“Together, we can create a brighter future and make a real difference in the fight against housing poverty.”
Do you have a message for AzuKo supporters?
Thank you for being part of AzuKo’s journey. Your support, in whatever form it takes, is what makes AzuKo's work possible – whether that’s donating, spreading the word, or simply sharing in our vision. I’ll be playing my part, and I hope you’ll continue to support AzuKo in your own way.
