Sue Funge is an experienced educator, assessor and curriculum specialist with over 25 years’ experience in adult learning, community development and inclusive practice. Her work is rooted in lived experience, emotional intelligence and a deep commitment to equity and belonging. She believes that everyone has the potential to grow when they are given the right support, understanding and opportunities.
Throughout her career, Sue has designed accredited programmes, supported diverse and vulnerable learners, led trauma-informed and anti-racist initiatives, and championed widening participation. She believes that when people feel seen, valued and capable, they are more able to recognise their strengths, overcome barriers and take their next step. When individuals grow, organisations become stronger and communities become places where more people can belong, participate and thrive. Her approach is values-led, practical and focused on building confidence, capability and connection, helping people and organisations develop the tools they need to create meaningful and sustainable change.
Sue created the Risewell Framework from a recognition that lasting change does not come from simply providing information; it comes from helping people understand themselves, understand others and develop the confidence to take positive action. The framework brings together learning, reflection and practical application to support individuals, organisations and communities to build their own capacity for growth.
Beverley Harry
Role: Anti-racism educator and consultant with over 25 years’ experience in schools and community settings
Connection to Risewell Pathways: Co-author of An Anti-Racist Toolkit for Educators, supporting whole-school transformation and inclusive practice
Values: Committed to racial equity, lifelong learning, and creating spaces where every voice is valued.
Sarah Brown
Role: Counsellor, Clinical Supervisor, Trainer, Lecturer in Counselling Studies
Connection to Risewell Pathways:
Co-author of Building a Thriving Workplace; The Disconnected Age and A Therapeutic Toolkit for Change.
Values: Respecting human rights and dignity; enhancing people’s wellbeing and capabilities along with increasing personal resilience and effectiveness.
Maria Cross
Role: Life and Career Coach
Connection to Risewell Pathways: Co-author of Coaching Skills: An Introduction, promoting confident, values-led conversations that help people find their own solutions.
Values: Dedicated to helping people achieve positive outcomes, gain self-understanding, and pursue their goals — guided by honesty, integrity, and respect.