Volunteering: Volunteer Centre Sutton staff member Melody Thorpe recognised for International Women’s Day

We are delighted to celebrate our colleague Melody Thorpe, who has been recognised by Sutton Women’s Centre as part of this year’s International Women’s Day.

Through a special portrait series by photographer Yani Yordanova at Nova Photo Atelier, Sutton Women’s Centre has highlighted women from across the borough who are making a meaningful difference in their communities. These leaders, advocates, volunteers and changemakers generously give their time, energy and passion to support others. 

This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” feels especially fitting. Each day, the centre creates opportunities for women to connect, build confidence and move forward, with a positive impact that reaches the wider community. 

Melody Thorpe © Yani Yordanova, Nova Photo AtelierMelody embodies this spirit in everything she does. She brings people together and creates welcoming spaces where women feel supported, heard and connected. Through her professional role and volunteering, she continues to make a lasting local impact. 

She is the founder of The Coterie, a women’s support group, and She-Sings, a Women’s Wellbeing Singing Group based in Cheam - both of which encourage connection, confidence and wellbeing. 

Melody is deeply committed to promoting diversity, inclusion and representation. Proud of her Hong Kong heritage and born and raised in the UK, she often acts as a bridge between communities, and is a passionate advocate for women in STEM. 

As a trained Ask Me Ambassador, Melody has developed a strong understanding of domestic abuse and supports partnership work with Sutton Women’s Centre. Alongside her role as a School Governor and parent, she champions inclusion and improved support for children with SEND across local schools and communities.

From volunteering as a School Governor, volunteering as a Ask Me Ambassador or running a support group or volunteer your time to support a local scouting/youth group – there is a huge range of volunteer roles in our communities in Sutton which you can really “Give to Gain” and we can help you find these roles.

Find out how you can volunteer and start your own journey