An inteview by So:Cultured

24/11/2025

 

I have been interested in history for as long as I can remember. My parents supported my interest with trips to historic places. Watching the raising of the Mary Rose on TV was certainly an inspiring moment. At secondary school I had a fantastic history teacher, Mr Henry, who encouraged my interest. Aged 12, I began volunteering on the excavations with Southampton City Council Archaeology Unit. I was too young to dig, but I was very happy washing and marking the finds under the guidance of Dr Andy Russel, and that was me hooked! I went on to study A levels and later to the University of Leicester to study Archaeology. When I graduated, my first job was processing the finds from the West Quay construction site.

 

Archaeology is much more than what lies underground. It is the study of what it means to be human. It helps us connect with places, memories and the natural world around us. Engaging with heritage can boost our wellbeing by giving us opportunities to learn, create, connect and share. It encourages us to get outdoors, whether through guided walks, exploring historic places or taking part in community digs. When we discover links to the past, we build emotional connections and feel a sense of belonging.

 

I enjoy running wellbeing sessions in the community, especially for people who may not have easy access to heritage, such as care home residents. Reminiscing with them often sparks valuable memories and conversations. I’ve also begun offering public Arts, Crafts and Archaeology for Wellbeing sessions. These sessions blend local archaeological stories with mindful crafting, creating a relaxed and sociable way for people to connect with heritage.

 

I set up Hampshire Community Heritage in 2022 so I could follow my interests and work in different ways. My mission is to connect people with their own heritage and the history that surrounds us, and to promote archaeology as a way to improve wellbeing. I now work with museums, heritage organisations, schools, care homes, community groups and individuals across Hampshire. Some people worry that museums or heritage venues might not be “for them,” but that’s not true. These places are welcoming and are constantly striving to be as inclusive and accessible as possible.

 

The greatest reward in my work is seeing people develop an interest in heritage. I love watching participants enjoy community sessions, ask questions, and share memories as they connect with the past. One recent example of my work was taking on the role of project coordinator for City Reflections 2. Many of our Community Curators began knowing little about Southampton’s history and had never visited its museums or galleries, but through the project their curiosity and engagement blossomed, making it a true voyage of discovery. A moment that stands out was watching one of the curators hold a piece of the Roman Jetty from Bitterne during a visit to the Archaeology Store – he couldn’t believe it was carbon dated to 201 AD! It’s wonderful to see history spark that kind of reaction. The group enjoyed visiting the city archives, the Art Gallery, SeaCity and Tudor House museums, and exploring the maritime and archaeology collections. For me, it was a privilege to work with such a diverse group and to see their passion develop as they created the stories behind their projections, connecting their own communities to Southampton’s heritage. I hope the project has helped them build a stronger sense of pride, connection and belonging in the city. Working with the Art Gallery collection was also a new and memorable experience. Seeing internationally renowned works from Turner and Monet, to contemporary artists like Lucy Ash side by side was inspiring, and I look forward to visiting again when the gallery reopens.

 

One of the things I love most about Southampton is its diversity. Every community has a story to tell, and I want to empower people to share theirs. We often overlook the places we live, but Southampton has a rich and varied history that offers something for everyone. I encourage residents and visitors to take the time to walk the walls, explore the museums and visit the galleries. They are wonderful places to spend meaningful time with friends and family, discovering more about Southampton – our home. Heritage is for everyone.

 

 

 

City Reflections: Illuminating Southampton’s Stories is a physical projection trail that will take place from 6pm to 8pm on Wednesday 18th to Saturday 21st February 2026.