Meet the team

I am Daniel. I came to the UK in 2005. I am involved in helping others from 2006 first as a trade union shop steward and a staff representative. I had the pleasure of working and studying for the Trade Union Congress as Academy Organiser. That was the time I had the opportunity to meet many charities, organisations from the sector. One organisation, the Sunderland Polish Community Organisation wanted to dissolve so my friends and I decided that it would be a good idea to take it over and form a new place for all the migrants. Now our charity is growing and we are able to help more people than ever.

My name is Michal and I have been involved in ICOS since August 2009. I directly manage several projects, including Back in Control and Shared Sunderland, as well as lead on funding and  development, ensuring that ICOS can continue to support our clients and grow. I speak Slovak and can get by in Czech. On behalf of ICOS, I am a member of the Input and Design (advisory) Team at Lloyds Bank Foundation. I am also a member of the Racial Justice Network at People’s Powerhouse.
I am passionate about making a long-lasting positive impact on the lives of minority ethnic people in Sunderland and the North East. I was born in Poland and have lived in the North East of England since moving to the UK in 2006.

My name is Agnieszka Cielecka. I joined ICOS in January 2022 as a Project Worker. I have been involved with ICOS as a volunteer since I came to the UK. With my new role, I am committed to supporting and empowering our clients by giving them the information and guidance they need. I am passionate about creating a positive impact, and I believe that bringing people together strengthens the community and improves our lives.

Hi, my name is Vanessa and I joined ICOS team as a volunteer in July 2022. I am a trainee project worker helping with the Back in Control Project.

I joined the wonderful ICOS team in August 2024 as a Project Worker supporting employability. I work to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds to achieve sustainable employment. With a focus on vulnerable clients, I deliver tailored one-on-one coaching, and CV preparation to enhance job readiness and build confidence. I collaborate closely with local businesses, partners, and support services across various sectors offering and delivering support to often vulnerable individuals to create pathways into work for my clients. My approach is holistic, addressing barriers including but not limited to language skills, digital literacy, and cultural adaptation, ensuring clients can navigate the job market and secure meaningful employment.