IMPROVING LIVES THOUGH CREATIVITY
Tutors and support
Jody lee - Lead tutor Poetry creative writing
With 10+ years of experience as a performance poet and facilitator, Jody Lee leads our creative writing sessions at Status Creative. A trained integrative counsellor, Jody specializes in using the written and spoken word as a vehicle for personal transformation. His work is built on a foundation of authenticity, informed by his own journey through addiction and domestic abuse recovery. Jody is dedicated to helping others find their voice and turn their lived experience into powerful, creative action.
Carnell cook
An accomplished Musician, singer and songwriter, with over 15 years of industry experience, Carnell . His experience and teaching qualification, partnered with his passion and drive for community make him a valued member of the team. Since teaching Music in mainstream education, he has focussed his attention to community based projects, working with young people from a diverse background, helping them gain confidence, increase self-esteem and build friendships all while teaching new skills. His work has also extended to work in the criminal justice system, working in prisons delivering music programmes and workshops facilitating both writing and recording projects and performance showcases. Carnell has a strong belief in the power of the arts to transform and empower and is driven to using the arts as a vehicle for change in young people’s lives, to enhance their future, to inspire and grow as humans. He is a strong advocate to discovery of ethnic identity, mentorship of young men and the power of exploration of being vulnerable and open in male dominated spaces where this can usually be unheard of. As a trauma informed, SEND trained facilitator, he ensures the needs of each individual are considered and incorporated in all his sessions, understanding that the world we live in is diverse and ever changing
Kirstie Olivadoti - DJ tutor
Hi my names K2o or Kirstie and i am so proud to be a part of status creative and the work that they do. I’m known as a Drum and bass Dj but play a variety of music and love being able to mix multi genre. My passion for DJing begun after having a mental health crisis I turned to music to heal and recover. As someone who has lived experience in homelessness, addiction and mental health issues, status creative has given me an avenue to help other people in similar situations and others who have unfortunate circumstances whist supporting me along the way. I now have currently played at clubs, raves, private party’s, festivals and on many a live stream .Music is the key to the soul and helping kids that haven’t had the best past has been so rewarding! In my main life my full time job is as a community teacher for children that don’t fit into mainstream education. As a mum of four I feel strongly in doing what I can to support people especially those who others have given up on or those who struggle. I think everybody deserves time and to be listened too and I will always do my best to help others. Music can heal and make people just for a moment forget their problems and djing allows me to share that and bring a smile even if it’s just to one person face 💜 I look forward to all amazing times going forward working with status creative and all the people who’s lives we can make a difference to.
Gil Walters - Music production/DJ
Gil is a dedicated musician with over 30 years of experience, specialising in DJing, drumming, piano, and music production. He holds a National Diploma in Popular Music, a BA (Hons) in Popular Music, and he is a fully qualified teacher (QTS). His qualifications form the foundation of his dual passion for artistry and education. For the past 12 years, Gil has taught and mentored young people, guided by a belief that music is a powerful vehicle for self-expression and personal growth. He supports students from all backgrounds, including those with special educational and mental health needs, creating a welcoming, inclusive environment. Through his teaching, performances, and production work, Gil empowers students to build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong passion for music.
Mai Black - Poetry and creative writing
Mai Black is a poet, novelist and creative writing tutor with ten years’ experience as a classroom teacher and fifteen as a creative workshop leader for adults. As a tutor for the Ipswich-based Inside Out Community she has used creativity to foster mental well-being and social inclusion drawing on her own experiences with managing her bipolar disorder. In Autumn 2025 she was a finalist for the inaugural Norwich City of Literature Award for her work with Suffolk Writers Group and her contributions to the East Anglian cultural life.
Allan williams - Art tutor
Allan has worked in the voluntary sector with vulnerable groups for over 30 years. He has worked in mental health for Wellbeing Suffolk for over 10 years - most recently, as a Peer Mentor. Allan has had extensive experience delivering and facilitating creative workshops for adults and children. He believes passionately in the healing power of the creative arts. Originally from Wales, he moved to Suffolk from London some years ago, and his subjects include images of the Suffolk coast, such as the form and colours of the waves.
Jen Jackson - Health and well-being support
Hi my name is Jen, Co-occurring conditions health and well-being support Using my qualifications in understanding Mental health in children,young people and adults, counselling skills, safeguarding, domestic abuse, and CPD in addiction and other mental health complexities, I've been supporting adults with poor mental health and Co-occurring conditions such as hoarding, and substance and alcohol addiction. I’ve worked alongside the council and RSI teams to help those who are homeless and facing other vulnerabilities. I feel working alongside people as individuals to support in a non judgemental, open and empathetic manner builds up trust and rapport that leads to stronger confidence and empowerment. I have lived experience of poor mental health, depression and anxiety, eating disorders, trauma & bereavement, and can understand the importance of solid support and understanding. I've been a fan of status creative for a while now, and support and enjoy the positive and safe space they create for people to express themselves in artistic ways, bringing empowerment and confidence to those who often don't get their voice heard! It's been a joy to see the group and the people who attend the projects flourish and I can't wait to now be a part of their team!