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Parents and Carers in Performing Arts (PiPA) today announced that Sarah Jackson OBE, chair of the Board, will step down in May 2025 after two terms of dedicated service.
Sarah, a flexible working expert and former CEO of Working Families, has been a cornerstone of PiPA’s leadership, guiding the organisation through an exceptional period of transformation from becoming a charity to an Arts Council England Investment Principles Support Organisation.
During Sarah’s tenure at PiPA the charity has grown exponentially, establishing itself as the sector leader for the voice of parents and carers in the performing arts increasing partnerships from 20 to over 70 performing arts organisations across the UK, including leading theatres, opera companies, music organisations, unions and membership bodies.
Sarah Jackson, OBE:
“It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of PiPA during such a pivotal time for the organisation. Over the years, I’ve witnessed PiPA grow in influence, impact, and reach—helping to drive real change for parents and carers in the performing arts.
As I step down, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together and confident that PiPA’s leadership will continue to push for a more inclusive and sustainable industry. I look forward to seeing the organisation thrive in this next chapter and remain a committed supporter of its vital work.”
In recognition of the growing complexity and ambition of PiPA’s mission, the charity is excited to announce a trial period of an interim co-chair model, testing its viability for PiPA in the longer term and potentially opening this key leadership role to a wider diversity of candidates.
PiPA founders and co-CEO's Anna Ehnold-Danailov and Cassie Raine:
“We want to thank Sarah for her ongoing dedication and passion for PiPA, and the transformative work she has done for the charity. Her insights, leadership and guidance leave an incredible legacy. We are excited about the opportunities this new era of PiPA will bring and look forward to working closely with our interim co-chairs, Trustees and team to forge new ways in the performing arts.”
Effective 2nd May 2025, PiPA vice-chair Shazia Mustafa and trustee Laura Harvey will assume their roles as Interim co-chairs of the Board.
Shazia Mustafa, Award-winning Founder of Third Door (Coworking & Nursery) and Director at Inclusive Placemaking said:
“I am thrilled to step into this role as interim co-chair alongside Laura, building on the incredible foundation laid by Sarah Jackson OBE. Over the past year, we have worked tirelessly to develop strategies that address systems of inequity within the creative arts industries, and I am excited to continue leading this vital work.
Together, we are committed to ensuring PiPA not only remains a champion for parents and carers in the performing arts but also evolves into a more financially resilient organisation, capable of navigating the changing funding landscape. This is a pivotal moment for PiPA, and I look forward to driving forward our mission to create a more inclusive and sustainable future for the arts.”
Laura Harvey, Head of Creative Programmes at the English National Ballet and freelance Dance Artist said:
"I look forward to working with Shazia as interim Co-Chair on the next part of PiPA’s journey, building on Sarah’s work in ensuring that PiPA continues to innovate, grow and thrive. 2025 marks ten years since PiPA was formed so this change comes at a pivotal moment where we celebrate the last ten years and look ahead at the future to come.”