Our team

As we are a d/Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisation (DDPO), the majority of our staff team have lived experience of disability and many of our team are local to Tower Hamlets. We are a diverse and vibrant team, please do come and say hello if you see us at events in the community!

Ellen Kennedy

Chief Executive Officer

As CEO, I lead Real’s strategy and ensure that all of our work delivers meaningful impact for Disabled people. I value working collaboratively and enjoy building relationships with a wide range of people, from our community to partners and stakeholders.

I have a background in research and social care and in my spare time I love reading and baking.

Meena Khanom

Head of Finance

 I lead Real’s financial strategy, planning and reporting to ensure strong governance and sustainability.

With experience in the charity sector, I work closely with the senior leadership team and trustees to provide clear financial insight for decision making.

I am passionate about using finance to strengthen Real’s impact, ensuring resources are managed responsibly so we can continue empowering Disabled people.

Shirin Hasan

Office Manager and Volunteer Coordinator

I support the smooth running of office operations and help improve systems and efficiency. I also run the volunteer programme, working with universities and community organisations across East London.

I joined Real in 2025, bringing a background in Law and over 16 years of experience in legal services, including more than a decade in the charity sector.

Sofia Kaltenbrunner

Communications and Marketing Coordinator

I help share Real’s work through our communications and marketing. I really enjoy working with different teams and finding creative ways to connect with people.

I originally trained in law and human rights, and I’m passionate about using communication to support inclusion and equality.

Outside of work, I love reading, yoga, travelling, and spending time with friends.

Dhwani Shah

Engagement, Coproduction & Voice Coordinator

I manage and deliver engagement projects with Disabled People. I love the sharing of ideas and working in collaboration to achieve a goal.

Outside of work, I love travelling, languages and swimming in the great outdoors

Rina Haque

Advocacy & Advice Coordinator

My role is to support project delivery in the Advocacy and Advice team and working in partnership with other, local organisations. I really enjoy supporting staff and work with lots of different people.

I have a background in Advocacy and Health care. In my spare time I like, travelling, gardening, and cooking different cuisines.

Amris Sahota

Senior Adviser

I am a social welfare adviser at Real. I also support on the Real Employment Support project and previously supported on the Housing project where we campaigned for better fire safety measures for disabled people across Tower Hamlets. I have a background in housing advice and policy. I enjoy swimming and watching films in my spare time.

R Shah

Adviser

I am an Adviser working across GP practices in Tower Hamlets, providing holistic welfare, benefits and social support to residents. With a background in Audiology, extensive NHS experience and specialist skills in British Sign Language, I deliver accessible, person centred advice across local GP practices and satellite clinics. I am committed to empowering Disabled people and local communities by providing the right advice and support at the right time, in places that are familiar and convenient for them.

Afrin Khan

Advocacy & Information Officer

I support Disabled people to understand their rights and access services such as housing, benefits, and social care. I hold a Master’s in Public Health from King’s College London. I’m passionate about empowering individuals to have their voices heard and challenging the barriers that lead to inequality.

Tiffany Marcel

Advocacy & Information Officer

I have a background in women’s and children’s mental health and childcare. I am passionate about empowering individuals.

Shalina Begum

Advice and Information Officer

My role as an Information Officer with the advocacy team, involves advising clients on vital information and supporting them in accessing local services. I am deeply passionate about breaking down barriers for vulnerable individuals in our community, driven by a deep understanding of support needs, in part gained through my personal experience as a carer.
In my personal time, I am committed to lifelong learning and enriching my knowledge. I enjoy spending time with my family, and I love cooking.

Rob Johnson

Engagement Officer

My current role is in engagement and I work on a variety of projects with our membership and numerous community groups.

I have been with Real around 18 years and worked in a variety of other roles including Trainer, Volunteeer Manager, Research, Operations and Comms

Most recently, I have co-authored Best Practice guides on Accessibility and Accessible Comms

Prior to working at Real, I did 10 years with Social Services at Merton Council and earlier still, advice work with the Citizen’s Advice Bureau

It’s fair to say, I continue working [at 67] albeit doing less hours, because I love my job!