ACTIVE BLACK COUNTRY APPOINTS STRATEGIC LEAD FOR IMPACT

Active Black Country has strengthened its team after appointing Rana Aytug as Strategic Lead for Impact.

Rana will lead the monitoring, evaluation and learning across our work in Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton.

A key focus of her role will be the development of our Impact Framework, designed to track progress and evidence the impact of the charity’s work against the vision and objectives outlined in our Creating an Active Black Country strategy. This framework will also reflect the wider efforts of partners across the region.

Rana brings extensive experience in research, evaluation, and stakeholder engagement, developed during her time working as a Research Associate and Project Lead, as well as on her PhD. Her work across various roles in academia and the non-profit and voluntary sector has included developing strategic frameworks, designing tools to measure social impact and facilitating partnerships that drive collaborative learning.

Rana’s proficiency in creative and participatory approaches will ensure our Impact Framework effectively captures progress. It will be used to foster collaboration with local communities and a diverse range of partners and stakeholders to co-create more inclusive, sustainable, active, and healthier communities and places.

“I’m excited to join the Active Black Country team to lead and oversee work around measuring and sustaining impact, gaining a strong understanding around complex social issues in the Black Country and how we can work with our partners to co-create active, healthier local communities and places," Rana said.

Ian Carey, CEO of Active Black Country, said: “It’s great to have Rana on board at a pivotal moment in the charity’s development as we look to develop our Impact Framework and embark on further work around place-based programmes.

“Her insights and contributions on the framework will enable us to learn from all aspects of our work and to amplify those insights in our communications, ensuring we are equipped to grow the evidence base for the difference that being active can make to people’s lives across the Black Country.”

Bethune Smith has also joined the Active Black Country team this week. In her role as Get Out Get Active Coordinator, she will be supporting us with the delivery of our GOGA programme, engaging with faith groups and other community organisations to activate initiatives in Dudley, Walsall and Wolverhampton.