Adam Pemberton Wickham is to become chief executive of LGBTQ+ youth homelessness charity akt in October 2024.
Adam, who succeeds Shān Nicholas, joins akt with a background in strategic leadership and advocacy for vulnerable groups. He is currently the Director of Strategy and Communications at Centrepoint and has previously held leadership roles at Barnardo’s and Victim Support. In a release, the charity said: “Adam’s dedication to the LGBTQ+ community and youth services uniquely positions him to lead akt, and we are all very excited for him to start.”
Rob Malcolmson, Chair of Trustees at akt, said, “I am delighted to welcome Adam as the new CEO of akt. His extensive experience makes him the perfect fit to guide our organisation into its next chapter. Adam’s passion and commitment to our mission ensures a bright future for akt, and we look forward to achieving great things for the young people we are here to support under his leadership.”
Adam said: ” I am thrilled to join akt as their new permanent CEO. I remember when akt was founded in the 80s. The work they were doing then was so vital for LGBTQ+ young people and it remains so important today. One in four homeless young peopleare LGBTQ+ and over 50% have tried to access another service before coming to akt for specialist help.
“Increasing homophobia and transphobia is putting these vulnerable young people in even greater danger. I am deeply honoured to become part of the movement for safe homes and brighter futures for LGBTQ+ young people.“