Joni Emery

People with lived experience of the criminal justice system have deep insight into realities, challenges and opportunities for change, yet leadership pathways are often limited or unsupported. In just 5 years, Joni Emery has progressed from a temporary administrator to a national leader on lived experience. Reshaping organisational culture and influencing national conversations, Joni has had an extraordinary trajectory rarely seen in the voluntary sector. She has taken every opportunity to share her personal story to uplift others, inspiring people with lived experience that leadership beyond the justice system is not only possible but within reach.

Joni's impact transcends the business operations of Clinks: she is a rising voice of lived experience and its critical importance in shaping a more just and humane criminal justice system. In this year, Joni has spearheaded two cross-sector initiatives that will transform and increase the credibility of lived experience recruitment and leadership. Reducing stigma, shaping best practice, and providing a platform for leaders with lived experience to inform criminal justice policy, lead and innovate via her national network.

Joni Emery represents a new model of leadership, one that not only breaks barriers, but ensures others rise alongside her. Her work is not just about inclusion; it is about transformation, creating a future where lived experience is recognised as essential expertise at every level. Joni is not just a rising star; she is an inspiring leader. Leading a collective of trailblazers with the shared goal of breaking through the glass ceiling.