Amanda Calloway's story...

Amanda Calloway is a childminder in Wales, but also a trustee for the National Childminding Association (NCMA).

She says: "Following a major career change from financial services to childminding I have always made time to volunteer in my local community. As a child care professional, being part of NCMA is a fundamental part of my business practice. I have volunteered in Wales for NCMA and I have a specific passion for raising the profile of Welsh childminders as child care professionals. When the opportunity arose within NCMA for a trustee who could specifically highlight the needs of members from Wales I decided to apply – the rest as they say is history.

"It is my aim that the board of trustees consider the differing issues members in Wales have before making board decisions. It is also an opportunity to be involved in making decisions which ultimately affect the way in which NCMA supports all of its members. Plus, it is an exciting opportunity to continue my own professional development.

"I am a relatively new trustee so I am on a very steep learning curve. However, it is an opportunity to get a greater insight into the governance of a national charity. For me being a trustee has been about pushing myself way out of my comfort zone. I have had the opportunity to meet with professionals and academics in the field of child development and child care, which has increased my own personal confidence.

"I think there is often a common misconception of what a trustee ‘looks’ like and a campaign like Trustees’ Week to highlight the fact that anyone can have the necessary qualities to make an effective trustee is beneficial."