We are absolutely delighted to welcome Raina Summerson as our new Chair of the Board.

Raina is CEO of Agincare (a national care provider with HQ on the Isle of Portland, Dorset) and has been a wonderful supporter of b-side, attending many of our events over the years as well as being an avid and active b-side Twitter follower! Raina Summerson brings vast and impressive experience of community engagement and business leadership to b-side, as well as deep awareness and knowledge of contemporary art.

 “It is perfect timing for us to work with Raina’s talents as b-side diversifies and grows its income streams as well as creates new methods for our unique artistic programming to become increasingly community led. Raina is a dynamic, warm, and vivacious individual and we are so happy she is joining the b-side team. Together we will connect culture and communities across the Isle of Portland, the South West of England, the UK, and beyond!”

Rocca Holly-Nambi – b-side Director

Raina says

“I am delighted to have been appointed as Chair of b-side. Having been an interested observer, both through enjoying the impressive outcomes of b-side’s work as a member of the public, and in collaborating with the team through my other local work as CEO of Agincare and Chair of the Portland Economic Vision board, it is a privilege to now take on this role.

Recognition of the impact of the arts on local communities in respect of belonging, engagement, well-being and critical financial investment is increasing, and this work links in with my professional and personal passion for Portland and its community, as well as my personal love of the arts.