Trustees
Diversity UK is an equality charity, that aims to advance the education of the public in diversity and inclusion in the workplace, in Britain. Trustees provide strategic direction and have oversight of the organisation and its responsibilities as a UK Registered Charity (No: 1155189).
Diversity UK Board Members & Trustees
Lopa Patel MBE DUniv - Chair
Lopa Patel MBE is a digital entrepreneur with significant experience of creating start-ups and transforming businesses through technology. The founder of two ventures in online media and a data-driven marketing consultancy, she is an evangelist for STEM, innovation and bridging the skills gap in business and promoting entrepreneurship. Lopa is also skilled in governance and is the Chair of the National Science & Media Museum (NSMM) Advisory Board and a Trustee of The Science Museum Group (SMG) and a Non-Executive Director of the Intellectual Property Office (IPO).
An inspirational leader, Lopa has been recognised with many accolades including an MBE for services to the creative industries in 2009 and the Lifetime Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion in 2015. She was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate by the OU in 2017 for her efforts in promoting diversity in science and technology, and for her broader contribution to British industry, society and culture.
Ramesh Vala CBE - Deputy Chair
Ramesh Vala CBE is a consultant to Ince and its international brand ambassador. Prior to joining the firm in 2014, he worked for a number of other leading law firms, including as a Partner and Head of Property, where he gained extensive experience in advising clients on property related matters. Graduating from the London School of Economics, Ramesh went on to achieve a distinction in his finals at Lancaster Gate College of Law. He became a partner within eighteen months of qualification and soon became one of very few Asian equity partners in a top UK law firm.
In his personal life, he is dedicated to improving the lives of those less fortunate by fundraising for various charities. In 2001, Ramesh was appointed an OBE for his charitable work and in 2022, he was honoured with a CBE in recognition of his services to the community and to the Covid-19 Response. In addition, Ramesh has been nominated for numerous awards, including the Dadabhai Naoroji Award to honour those who have helped to improve UK/India relationships.
Francesca Jus-Burke - Trustee
Francesca Jus-Burke is a corporate and commercial lawyer at Greenwoods Legal LLP in Cambridge. At her previous firm she founded a CSR Committee and sat on its D&I Steering Committee. Before becoming a lawyer, Francesca worked as a rowing coach for Putney High School and Barn Elms Boat Club, as a tutor & assessor for British Rowing, and as a sports performer coordinator and mentor for the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust. More recently, Francesca has been a trustee of Love Rowing (British Rowing's charitable foundation), a charity that changes lives by increasing diversity in the sport.
Sareeta Vala - Trustee
Sareeta Vala is a qualified NLP (Neurolinguistic Programming) Master Practitioner and Coach. Having received training under esteemed mentors, including the renowned Robert Dilts and Ian McDermott, Sareeta possesses a deep understanding, enabling her to guide others in overcoming challenges and embracing positive change. With a background of 7+ years in fashion retail, product design, and procurement, Sareeta brings valuable insights into the dynamic world of retail management. Her understanding of customer psychology, business intricacies, and product procurement makes her a valuable asset in the industry. By blending NLP techniques with her retail acumen, Sareeta offers personalised solutions that inspire transformation and drive success. Whether it's personal growth or optimising business strategies, she is committed to guiding individuals and organisations on their journey to excellence.