New Chapter: Dami takes on a Board role at Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust (MBHT)

I am incredibly pleased to share that I have joined the board of Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust, an organization that holds deep historical, cultural, and community significance in the heart of Glasgow. I’ve officially been in this role for a couple of months, but I haven’t had a chance to update you. This particular role is excitingly challenging, and it’s different. The Halls, quite publicly, have been struggling with their finances in the last two years due to several reasons. It was even anticipated that it would have had to file for bankruptcy at the end of the previous financial year, i.e., 5 April 2025. A few months ago, I got into discussions with the remaining dedicated board members to assess the challenge (read opportunity) and eventually decided to join the board to help weather this difficult period. Yes, I know it’s a tricky and difficult challenge. But guess who fancies difficult things? Yes, you guessed right! Me! So, viola! We’ve set several things into motion since I joined, and I’m excited to help turn this around. I will look to provide an update by summer about our progress and possibly another update by the end of the year. 

For those unfamiliar, the Maryhill Burgh Halls is a beautifully restored, iconic building originally built in the 1870s, which has stood as a symbol of civic pride and community strength for generations. The Halls are perhaps best known for their extraordinary stained-glass windows, which tell the story of Maryhill’s industrial past, celebrating the hardworking people who contributed to Glasgow’s development through industries like shipbuilding, glassmaking, and engineering.

Today, Maryhill Burgh Halls Trust is not just about preserving the past, it’s about using this historical space to support the present and inspire the future. The Halls serve as a vibrant community hub, offering a space for cultural events, educational programs, exhibitions, creative activities, and local enterprise support. The Trust is deeply committed to fostering community wellbeing, providing opportunities for learning, celebrating diversity, and connecting people across generations.

With this board role, I am truly excited to contribute to this mission, supporting efforts that keep the Halls alive as both a heritage site and a dynamic, forward-looking community center. I look forward to playing an active part in shaping strategy, helping to grow the Trust’s impact, and amplifying the importance of community, creativity, and cultural heritage.

For me, joining this board is a reminder of the power of spaces that bring people together, tell collective stories, and serve as platforms for growth and connection. I’m eager to collaborate with an inspiring group of trustees, staff, and community members who care deeply about making a difference.

This is not just about preserving history, it’s about building on it, nurturing community voices, and ensuring that places like Maryhill Burgh Halls continue to thrive for generations to come.

I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity, and I look forward to the journey ahead!