Marlene was born and raised in Liverpool, England. From a young age, she demonstrated a keen interest in sports and physical activity. After completing her schooling, she qualified as a Leisure Manager and became a member of the Institute of Leisure and Amenities Management (ILAM) as well as the Institute of British Resort Management (IBRM) and later integrated her academic pursuits by earning a Sports Science degree from Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU). Marlene remains qualified to coach most fitness activities.
With a deep-rooted passion for sport, health, and community empowerment, Marlene embarked on a successful career that spanned various sectors, including the voluntary, statutory, and private sectors. She became a Regional and National Sports Development Manager, working on significant programs sponsored by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and Sport England. Her initiatives focused on using sports to foster opportunities for participation and pathways to elite sports, while also addressing critical social issues such as youth engagement, community cohesion, equality, health, education, employment, and crime prevention.
Marlene’s commitment to community empowerment is evident in her extensive volunteer work. From 2009 to 2019, she served as a voluntary grant assessor for the Henry Smith Foundation, where she played an instrumental role in distributing over £6 million to community groups across the Northwest of England. In addition to her grant-assessing duties, she championed equality initiatives as an equality champion for Sport England in the Northwest, working on thematic implementation groups addressing health, education, and community safety.
Marlene’s advocacy efforts led to the establishment of the first regional equality network, which brought together the English Federation of Disability Sport, the Women’s Sport Foundation, and the Black and Ethnic Minority Sport Network. She represented Black and Ethnic Minority interests as an elected representative on various boards, including the Liverpool Strategic Partnership, Liverpool First Board, and Merseyside Change Up Consortium. Additionally, she chaired the Liverpool Kuumba Imani Centre from 2005 to 2007, further showcasing her dedication to community service.
After the passing of her father, Marlene transitioned into the family business, taking on the role of Joint Managing Director alongside her sister and mother. Their ventures span property development, building, and music, allowing Marlene to blend her entrepreneurial spirit with her community-focused ethos.
Today, Marlene continues to balance her professional commitments with her personal interests. She engages in sports and fitness consultancy, using her expertise to promote health and wellness within various communities. Through her work and advocacy, Marlene remains a powerful voice for empowerment, equality, and the importance of sports in societal development.
Marlene’s lifelong dedication to sports development and community empowerment has left a significant impact on the communities she serves. Her efforts have not only provided opportunities for individuals but have also fostered a spirit of unity and resilience among diverse populations in Liverpool and beyond.
Exchange Station, 4th Floor, Tithebarn St, Liverpool L2 2QP
0151 363 9536
