Celebrating Trustees’ Week: Spotlight on Lee Pearson, Vice Chair of Pride in Hull

As Trustees’ Week 2025 celebrates people who dedicate their time and expertise to strengthen the charitable sector, the HEY Smile Foundation is proud to shine a light on Lee Pearson, Vice Chair and Trustee of Pride in Hull.

Lee’s work with Pride in Hull demonstrates how trustees play a crucial role in shaping inclusive, community-led organisations that provide visibility, belonging, and advocacy for LGBTQIA+ people across the region.

Inspired by Visibility and Community

Lee’s journey to becoming a trustee was driven by his deep belief in the power of representation and inclusion.

“I’ve always believed in the power of visibility, representation and community,” he explains. “Growing up, I saw first-hand the impact that inclusive spaces and events can have on people’s sense of belonging and self-worth. Pride in Hull isn’t just a celebration, it’s a vital platform for advocacy, education, and unity across the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond.”

He was drawn to Pride in Hull’s strong grassroots ethos and year-round commitment to inclusion. “It’s about continuous engagement, pushing for progress, and creating spaces where people can be fully themselves. That’s something I’m proud to support and help shape as a trustee.”

Making a Tangible Difference

For Lee, the most rewarding aspect of being a trustee is seeing first-hand the difference Pride in Hull makes to people’s lives.

“Knowing that I’m contributing to something that genuinely changes lives is what drives me,” he says. “Pride in Hull creates a space where people can feel seen, celebrated and safe-often for the first time.”

He also values the opportunity to work alongside other passionate, committed individuals. “It’s fulfilling to be part of a team that shares the same vision for positive change. Whether it’s shaping strategy, supporting community projects or delivering events that inspire pride and visibility, it’s a privilege to be part of something so meaningful.”

Personal and Professional Growth

Serving as a trustee has also enriched Lee’s life in both personal and professional ways. “It’s deepened my connection to the LGBTQIA+ community and strengthened my commitment to advocacy and inclusion. It’s also grounded me-it aligns perfectly with my values and gives me a real sense of purpose.”

From a professional perspective, Lee credits the role with helping him grow as a leader. “It’s developed my strategic thinking, governance skills and decision-making. Working alongside a diverse board has expanded my outlook and shown me how powerful community-led initiatives can be in creating lasting change.”

Driving Growth and Inclusion

When reflecting on his contributions as a trustee, one of Lee’s proudest moments was helping develop strategic partnerships that strengthened Pride in Hull’s impact and reach.

“I worked on partnerships that helped the organisation continue to grow and establish itself as one of Hull’s key city events,” he notes. “Through this collaboration, we were able to introduce a section of the event designed to be even more inclusive, and this year we welcomed around 170,000 people across the city centre.”

Seeing those results firsthand, he says, was a huge source of pride. “The feedback from attendees and the increase in community engagement reaffirmed why this work matters.”

Lessons in Lasting Impact

One of the most powerful lessons Lee has learned during his time as a trustee is that real impact comes from consistency and care.

“It’s not always about the big, show-stopping moments – it’s about the small, daily actions that keep an organisation strong. Whether that’s improving accessibility, supporting a colleague, or refining processes, those efforts add up to lasting change.”

He believes trusteeship is about sustainability as much as celebration. “It’s not just about delivering a great event; it’s about ensuring the organisation continues to grow and evolve to serve its community year after year.”

Measuring What Matters

Lee’s experience has also deepened his understanding of the importance of evaluation and evidence in the charity sector.

“I’ve learned that passion and good intentions aren’t enough,” he says. “Charities must be able to demonstrate their impact. Data, evaluation and clear outcomes don’t just strengthen funding cases-they improve the way we support our communities.”

Championing Progress and Inclusion

Lee Pearson’s journey as a trustee of Pride in Hull reflects both the spirit and purpose of Trustees’ Week-showcasing how leadership, collaboration and compassion can help charities create spaces that truly make a difference.

His work reminds us that trusteeship isn’t just about governance; it’s about guiding organisations that lift others up and ensure every community has a voice, a platform and a reason to take pride.