meet the team

Recently appointed as Operations Manager at Zebra Access, Robyn leads the charity’s operations, strengthening systems, supporting staff and ensuring services are shaped by Deaf, Deafblind, Hard of Hearing and Deafened communities. She continues to lead the 100 Years Heritage of Walsall Deaf Community project until July 2026, overseeing its full delivery from planning through to legacy. With experience across the UK and South Africa, she brings a strong track record in leading complex projects and building partnerships. Her work centres lived experience, cultural integrity and inclusive and Deaf-led practice.

Bob previously served as Managing Director at Zebra Access, following his role as Head of Employment Services where he led the delivery of high quality employability support for Deaf customers across the Black Country, consistently exceeding contractual targets and driving strong performance across contracts.

He now brings his expertise in fundraising and strategic development, building on a proven track record of impactful leadership, partnership working, and successful service delivery. In his current role, Bob leads on fundraising, strategic partnerships and organisational growth, while continuing to play an active role in shaping the charity’s long term vision and direction.

Deirdre has worked at Zebra Access since 2017, building extensive experience across a range of roles. Growing up in the Deaf community shapes her approach, which is grounded in person centred practice, advocacy and empowerment, ensuring Deaf, Deafblind, Hard of Hearing and Deafened people are heard and supported. As Designated Safeguarding Lead, she plays a key role in maintaining strong, person centred safeguarding practice across the charity.

Clare brings both lived experience and a deep understanding of the barriers Deaf people face. Born deaf and raised in a hearing family, she encountered challenges around communication and access from an early age. It was through discovering the Deaf community in her early teens that she found a strong sense of identity and belonging. This journey shapes her commitment to ensuring Deaf people have equal access to information, peer support and services that support health and wellbeing. As Health and Wellbeing Officer at Zebra Access, she is dedicated to delivering inclusive events, workshops and activities that create safe and accessible spaces and improve quality of life for Deaf people without barriers.

Mirriam, who has been deaf since birth, found a strong sense of identity and belonging within the Deaf community after facing challenges navigating the hearing world during her childhood. These experiences have shaped her understanding of the importance of access, support and community connection. She has taken on a range of roles, including volunteering at Deaffest’s 15th Anniversary and working as a BSL Assistant, building experience in supporting Deaf individuals in different settings. As Information, Advice and Guidance / Triage Officer at Zebra Access, she is committed to providing clear and accessible support helping Defa people navigate challenges with confidence.

Ernesto was born Deaf and has lived in Wolverhampton for most of his life, building strong connections within the Deaf community across the West Midlands. With over 20 years of experience working across a range of organisations, he brings a wealth of knowledge and transferable skills to his work.

He supports Deaf individuals with advice and guidance on areas including benefits, housing, employment, travel and debt, ensuring information is accessible and tailored to individual needs. He communicates in BSL and works alongside interpreters where needed to ensure clear and effective communication.

Outside of work, he enjoys sports such as pool, table tennis and golf.

Jack Smallwood is a proud Deaf professional, born and raised in Wolverhampton, and a well known and active member of the local Deaf community. He brings a strong background in media and communications to his work, with a creative and engaging approach that connects with Deaf and hard of hearing audiences across Wolverhampton and the Black Country.

Alongside his role at Zebra Access, he continues his work with Zebra Uno Ltd as a media specialist and has been involved with Deaffest for over 13 years, contributing to one of the UK’s leading Deaf-led film and arts festivals.

Known for his versatility, creativity and humour, he brings energy and a wide range of skills to everything he does, making him a valued part of the team and the wider Deaf community.

Shrinidhi, born and raised in India, brings extensive experience in fundraising, grant management, donor relations, and policy research. Holding a Master's degree in Social Work and Public Policy, Shrinidhi is deeply committed to advocating for inclusive environments. Passionate about ensuring that individuals who are Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing have access to the resources they need, Shrinidhi aims to work towards raising vital funds to support the deaf community to ensure empowerment and inclusion.