Tracy Mikich shares this great tribute to the powerhouse that is Zoe Thompson, in her own words, but all echoed by us at OnTheWight. Ed
What can you say about Zoe Thompson without being sent to the naughty corner for putting her in the spotlight?
Well there are many things, but above all is Zoe’s drive to represent and give voices to the vulnerable.
Opportunities for young people
Motivated by a desire to see a fairer world, she has set up and been involved in numerous projects to give opportunities to young people including those who struggle in mainstream education.
Her work both at Wight Trash and John Cattle’s Skateclub has given young Islanders a valuable alternative pathway that improves confidence, builds social skills and resilience, as well as introducing them to community that welcomes all.
Strong value system
Without Zoe’s strong value system, opportunities like these on the Island would be greatly reduced. Zoe’s value system also extends to championing small businesses and in her capacity as chair of Ryde Business Association, she has galvanised a business community that is the envy of other towns.
I don’t think any of this is easy for one minute (the Pandemic, cost of living crisis and general deprivation) but she sees the bigger picture and keeps going, knowing it’s the right thing to do.
Ryde now has a High Street filled with a community of independents retailers and regular events keep the town in the spotlight.
High Street Heritage Action Zone
Zoe loves Ryde and she was instrumental in getting significant funding to Ryde via the Heritage Action Zone, a four year programme, funded by Historic England, Ryde Town Council and Isle of Wight council.
This funding has in turn helped encourage community participation to help shape the future, as well as harness the expressive power of creative practitioners to forge an authentic visual identity for the town.
Helping improve our everyday lives
In addition, Zoe gives her time freely to stakeholder groups and local politicians in order to inform, and increase awareness of possibilities that will improve our everyday lives.
She is a truly amazing, strong, funny, caring and unique woman who has positively changed the lives of many. Zoe Thompson we raise our glass of craft beer to you!
Hathaway: Tirelessly facilitated and supported creatives
Isle of Wight artist, Laura Hathaway, said,
“Zoe has tirelessly facilitated and supported creatives in order to promote and give a platform to the arts.
“This continuing advocacy for creativity, especially in the public realm has created many opportunities for all to experience and benefit from engagement in the arts.”
Boyd: We are very lucky to have her
Environmental conservationist, Ian Boyd, said,
“There are some people in the world who set out to change the life and times of their communities, no matter what the obstacles, no matter what the intransigence of officialdom.
“Zoe is just such a person and thank god for that! We are very lucky to have her.”
Wheeler: Does more than advocate for the Arts; she makes it happen
Designer and creative strategist, Abi Wheeler, said,
“Zoe does more than advocate for the Arts; she makes it happen. She doesn’t stand on ceremony, hypothesise or wait for approval.
“Instead she demonstrates the transformative power of arts and culture by getting things done.”
Perry: Commitment to providing safe and inclusive spaces for young people is truly admirable
Sally Perry, Editor of News OnTheWight, said,
“An exceptional woman, Zoe Thompson is a true leader with a natural ability to inspire and motivate others. Having seen how she works over the years, it’s clear that she’s always willing to go above and beyond to help those around her.
“Passionate about community and youth development, Zoe has made a significant impact in her community, whether it’s organising events, managing social media accounts, or coordinating volunteers, she always has the best interests of the community at heart. Her commitment to providing safe and inclusive spaces for young people to learn, grow, and have fun is truly admirable.
“In short, Zoe Thompson is a remarkable woman, her contributions to the Ryde Business Association, as well as Wight Trash and John Cattle’s Skateclub have been invaluable, and her dedication to community and youth development is an inspiration to us all.”
Brimstone: Provided so many opportunities for small businesses to thrive
Charlotte Brimstone, Craft Vegan Pizza, said,
“Zoe has been so supportive of us from the very beginning helping us become established in Ryde.
“She has been such a big part in the development of Ryde and has provided so many opportunities for small businesses to thrive!”
Lucioni: She tirelessly promotes Ryde
Ryde councillor, Karen Lucioni, said,
“Zoe has passion and commitment for Ryde’s business community in abundance.
“She tirelessly promotes Ryde and the fabulous offer we have within our town”
