Meet the Nuvo Wellbeing Team! The people who are the foundation of our community and it’s wide impact across the region. Our team comprises passionate professionals from diverse backgrounds, each bringing their unique talents, expertise, and dedication. From our skilled instructors who lead dynamic fitness and dance classes to our compassionate support staff who ensure every participant feels valued and supported, every member of the Nuvo Wellbeing team plays a crucial role in our mission to promote health, wellbeing, and inclusivity.
To get in touch with us please email: [email protected] or click here.
Global Patron
Michael Flatley
Michael Flatley first stepped onto the world stage 26 years ago in Riverdance; a performance he created that caught the attention of millions around the world. He went on to create a full-scale show of the same name and two years later his next show Lord of the Dance. Since then, his name and live shows have become synonymous with spectacular artistry and grand scale productions that have mesmerised audiences around the globe.
He has created, directed and produced several successful shows and has performed at iconic locations. With his conviction that “nothing is impossible” Michael Flatley has broken many world
records throughout his career.
Michael Flatley has been recognizsd by many establishments and received numerous awards for his contribution to the entertainment industry and the promotion and enrichment of the arts. His philanthropy extends across Europe and the Americas in a variety of sectors
from the arts to sports, medical research, children’s charities and supporting the elderly.
His determination and drive to succeed against the odds have been an inspiration to people from all walks of life and has encouraged many to follow their dreams.
Founder & Chair
Bethany
I graduated from University in 2008 with a first class honours in Contemporary Dance and established Nuvo Wellbeing; an award-winning social enterprise 6 months later, after identifying a lack of suitable physical activity provision. Having performed as a professional dancer for TV, Bollywood, and motion capture film, I recognised the transformative power of dance and movement in enhancing both physical and mental wellbeing. Witnessing local communities often suffering from health and social inequalities, I founded Nuvo Wellbeing with the mission to boost health and wellbeing within these communities.
Since its inception, Nuvo Wellbeing has supported thousands of people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, providing accessible and inclusive dance and fitness programmes tailored to individual needs. In addition to my role as founder and director, I pursued further education, completing a PGCE and MA in Professional Dance with a key focus on Community and Health. This academic journey deepened my understanding of the intersection between dance, health, and community development.
Awards received via Nuvo Wellbeing include Ernst & Young Future 50, The Gazette Chief Executive Awards; North East Young Business Person of the Year, David Goldman Prize for Innovation & Susan Dobson Business Woman of the Year, and recognition in the Social Entrepreneurs Index 2020. These accolades underscore Nuvo Wellbeing’s commitment to excellence and innovation in promoting holistic wellbeing through dance and physical activity.
ChiEf Operating OFficer
Natalie
My connection to Nuvo Wellbeing spans beyond my current role, as I attended dance sessions under the instruction of our founder for over a decade, allowing me to see the founding of Nuvo Wellbeing and its development into a successful social enterprise.
I graduated from Newcastle University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Classical Studies in 2017 and shortly after began working for Nuvo Wellbeing. Since then I have gained a range of qualifications including Dip in Mindfulness, Dip in Laughter Therapy and Certificate in Education and Training, and I have progressed to COO of Nuvo Wellbeing and our training branch ActivCare Training.
I’m passionate about empowering communities through accessible wellbeing programmes and have been recognised as a ‘Change Maker’ in Northern Power Women Future List 2024 and was highly commended at Newcastle University Alumni Awards 2024 for my civic and social impact and contribution within my role at Nuvo Wellbeing.
Business Administration Apprentice
Millie
I attended Nuvo Wellbeing’s community dance sessions and performed in many of the shows for over 7+ years. In 2022 I completed a Level 3 Sport Qualification and Level 2 Exercise to Music Qualification to allow me to deliver Dance and Fitness sessions for Nuvo Wellbeing before then joining the team full-time as a Business Administration apprentice.
I am keen to support Nuvo Wellbeing’s mission and expand my own skills to increase the organisations ever growing community!
Dance & Fitness Instructor
Lucy
I’m Lucy, and I’ve been teaching dance and musical theatre since I was a teenager, which has opened up a variety of exciting paths for me. My ambition to pursue a career in teaching has only grown stronger over the years.
Currently, I’m undertaking my DipLCM teaching exam in singing, which has greatly enhanced my teaching techniques in both fitness and dance classes. I love helping people achieve their goals, whether it’s improving fitness levels, mindfulness, communication skills, or building confidence. Being part of Nuvo Wellbeing has been fantastic for supporting these journeys.
Dance & Fitness Instructor
Kate
Originally from Manchester, I trained at Midlands Academy of Dance and Drama (MADD) where she graduated in 2020.
I began working professionally with professional credits that include Crossroads Pantomime of Cinderella working alongside huge names such as Gok Wan & Alan Harding, AJ Productions pantomimes of Snow White & Dick Whittington, Kemmy the Witch in Dennis & Friends Musical Monster Mash Up at The Customs House and most recently playing Tinkerbell in Peter Pan at Hartlepool Town Hall Theatre.
I began my teaching career in early 2022 and have never looked back. I teach in Dance Schools across the North East and am now excited to be a part of the Nuvo Team, sharing my knowledge and love for dance & fitness.
Dance & Fitness Instructor
Kate
My passion for dance started at a young age when I trained at Weguline School Of Russian Ballet I then went on to training at the Hammond Ballet School in Chester and finally finished at Alra. From there I was given many performing opportunities such as Cruise ships, touring shows, summer seasons, and dancing jobs abroad.
After many years of working professionally I decided to share my talents and experiences with students. I have been a dance teacher for 25 years as well as having my own successful performing arts school. As much as I have a passion for performing, I am also qualified as a fitness instructor. For years I have coached Aqua aerobics, body tone, and now chair aerobics. A goal of mine has been to help people become fitter as well as make it fun.
Dance & Fitness Instructor
Louise
I’m Louise, a passionate dance and fitness instructor with a diverse background in exercise to music, gym instruction, personal training, and dance education. With years of experience in helping clients achieve their fitness goals, I bring energy and enthusiasm to every class and training session.
In addition to teaching, I perform and choreograph for shows and pantomimes, blending creativity with physical fitness. My mission is to inspire and empower individuals to lead healthier, more active lives through the joy of movement and dance.
Dance & Fitness Instructor
Becca
From the age of 3 I loved to dance! At 21 I graduated from the University of Northampton with a BA Hons in Dance and have continued my passion for Dance at Nuvo Wellbeing. During my time at University, I had the opportunity to see first hand the power of movement and dance in the community in my role as Manager of Playgrounds Dance Company.
After graduating from Northampton with a 2:1 in Dance, I went on to qualify with my Level 3 Personal Training Fitness qualification with pre and postnatal specialty. Using these skills I built a successful community-based fitness company where I continued to carry out my passion to deliver and teach others how to live an active lifestyle and the impact it can have on quality of life.
Over the past 10 years I have witnessed first hand how important keeping active is, and how fun it can be! I love working with a wide range of ages and abilities, using a variety of activities to engage and facilitate movement. I’m excited to work with Nuvo-Wellbeing and get into the community to make a difference to the lives
of individuals seeking a healthier lifestyle.
Dance & Fitness Instructor
Joanna
Since working for Nuvo, Joanna has been able to channel her passion for bringing wellbeing to those in the community and loves seeing her participants every week developing a love for an active lifestyle, embracing the social interaction that comes with it and bringing back memories for those in dementia care.
Nutritionist & Tutor
Catherine
I am a qualified nutritionist, tutor and chef with over 30 years of experience in the food industry.
I began my journey straight from leaving school, when I worked in hospital kitchens training to be a chef. From there I moved to London and became a licensee, running a pub restaurant for a number of years. After deciding to move back to the North East, I began running a school kitchen.
Knowing I had practical experience behind me, I made the decision to pursue a more academic career and began studying for my BSc degree in Food Science and Nutrition at Northumbria University. Once qualified, I also studied for and obtained my PGCE from Sunderland University.
My role within the Nuvo Wellbeing team involves delivering practical healthy eating sessions within the local community. These courses are aimed at educating people on how to make healthy lifestyle choices, while cooking on a budget.
Non-Executive Director
Roisin
I am delighted to join Nuvo Wellbeing as a Non-Executive Director. As an Irish Dance Teacher and ex-professional dancer, I believe that my passion, experience and interest in dance, wellbeing and positivity will align well with Nuvo’s ethos and ambitions for the future. I am a keen supporter of charity and possess a strong community focus. Furthermore, as my roots lie within the North East, I am honoured to be involved in a local, community driven, innovative enterprise.
I have danced since the age of three under my mother’s Irish dance school, Healy-O Donnell School, which I now co own and co teach, taking a seven-year break to travel the world as a principal and back line dancer in Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance. In addition to my dancing career, I also studied Law, graduating from Newcastle Law school back in 2013. In 2018, I qualified as a solicitor and currently specialise in Private Client work at McKeag & Co Solicitors in Gosforth. Believe it or not, there are many transferable skills between being a dancer, dance teacher and a lawyer!
I thank the Nuvo team for inviting me on their board and I am excited for what lies ahead!
Non-executive Director
Lesley
After being diagnosed with an Underactive Thyroid at 25 years old I realised the importance of staying active. I strongly believe activity is paramount for our mental and physical wellbeing. I worked in the health and wellness industry for over 10 years before moving on to providing support to businesses.
I am passionate about spreading the word about wellness and activity as I personally know how it got me through a horrid health scare and still plays a huge role in my life today at 53 years old!