100 Club Profile: Gemma Durkin, Tilney
Gemma Durkin is a chartered financial planner and director at Tilney. She is a member of the Leeds Community Foundation’s 100 Club, a patronage scheme for individuals who are motivated to make a difference in Leeds.
Here, she discusses what she loves about the city, and why she’s involved in the foundation.
Favourite thing about Leeds?
The numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in arts and culture; from Carnival to the Grand Theatre & West Yorkshire Playhouse, museums to art galleries and diverse and interesting architecture round every corner.
What would you change about the city?
Whilst some of the cultural experiences on offer are free to access, there is still much to be done to ensure that educational and enriching experiences within our fabulous city centre are available to all.
Why did you decide to join the Leeds Community Foundation’s 100 club?
We work with a number of philanthropists, business owners and charities within the Leeds community. Membership of the 100 club provides a conduit to engage directly with the exceptional charities enhancing the community right on our doorstep and to see, first-hand, their invaluable work in action.
What community issues are important to you and/or your organisation?
In light of the ongoing concerns around increasing consumer debt in the UK, whilst the roots of the problem are clearly complex and far-reaching, it is vital that we look to slow the debt spiral by implementing better financial education in our schools. When our young people then leave education they will better understand the value of money and the need to budget, save and manage their financial future.
