Shining a light on our Appetite Ambassadors
Our Appetite Ambassadors volunteer behind the scenes helping to spread the word about our events. They become involved in the project in a variety of ways either as an audience member, sometimes a volunteer or even just a community member that is passionate about their area and wants to shout about all the great things to see and do in Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Introducing Ambassador Val
My name is Valjinder Bansal, mostly known as Val, I was born and raised in Hartshill, Stoke on Trent and later the family moved to Basford in the neighbouring Newcastle under Lyme. I currently work in the care industry on nights, but spent most of my working life at Wedgwood. I have two sons, Jay and Raj, who are both at university. I have a passion for photography, cricket, history, old Bollywood movies/songs, drinking tea, walking; and most importantly, cappuccino and carrot cake.
I first got involved with Appetite when I was introduced to Gemma, the previous Appetite Director, in 2016. I shared my idea of using old scanned family photos and my interest in sharing their stories of moving from Punjab to Stoke-on-Trent – I had already thought of a name, Punjab to the Potteries. We discussed my idea, and I mentioned other aspects of South Asian Arts and how it would be great to have an event specially showcasing this.
I started attending events run by Appetite and it opened a whole new world to me, I never thought I’d be so involved and enjoy something like this. I met some wonderful people and made some great friends on my journey.
Next, everything changed for me, I was involved in every aspect of the project, from interviewing writers, shortlisting scripts and organising workshops to gather stories from the local Punjabi community. Sam Ivin was back with the project and did a series 23 portraits we had on display at the New Vic and other locations after. I never knew how much hard work and organising was required to put on a production for one evening in the summer of 2023.
Spreading the wonderful work Appetite do in bringing arts to the local community, with having insight over the years on various events and projects, being involved in decision making with others has made me feel so confident and natural now talking with people. I love meeting fellow Ambassadors and talking about different events and performers, it’s lovely to talk and catch up. Plus, I love the name, “Ambassador Val”!
My stand out moments with Appetite have to be Settling, Punjab to the Potteries and Sensasian – they are a part of me and will always be. The Big Feast is also amazing – there is always so much on show and caters for all in so many different genres. One of my earliest memories was Enchanted Chandelier back in 2016, I was struck in awe and amazement. This year, I had the opportunity to attend An Indian Summer in Leicester as an Appetite Take Away. Itt was amazing to attend such a big Asian festival and interact with different people and and projects about potentially bringing something similar to Stoke.
In terms of what I’m excited about right now, Sensasian continues makes me so happy and it’s been great being involved more in Appetite’s decision-making sessions this year. I’m also excited that Punjab to the Potteries will continue as a photography project next year with Urban Wilderness. Old photographs will be collated and documented from the local Punjabi community, showcased on social media and an exhibition.
If you love the arts, meeting and working alongside like-minded people and got time, what are you waiting for – get involved!
Introducing Ambassador Monaliza
I am Monaliza, a mum of 3 lovely children. I’m someone who’s always been passionate about creativity, community, and helping people flourish. My background includes long experience in office management, and I hold a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. I’m also proud to call Stoke-on-Trent home; its creativity, heritage, and people are a huge part of who I am.
I joined Appetite during March 2025. I first got involved after attending a few events and seeing how transformative they were for local people. Appetite had this unique way of bringing art into everyday spaces, sparking conversations, and helping the city come alive. I wanted to be part of that energy and help others feel the same sense of pride and connection.
What I enjoy most is being able to champion creativity in my community. I love meeting people, hearing their stories, and helping them access opportunities they may not have realised were for them. Being an Ambassador and a decision maker gives me the chance to help break down barriers and make the arts feel welcoming and exciting for everyone.
The Big Feast is definitely my standout Appetite moment, as it was my first event to attend when I moved to the city and the first time I heard about Appetite. It was also my first role in helping choose the acts as an Appetite Ambassador and decision-maker. The moments when you look around and see families, young people, and older residents all enjoying something together are incredibly powerful.
I hope Appetite continues to bring joy, possibility, and togetherness. It has a way of making creativity feel accessible, not something hidden in galleries, but something you can stumble upon in your own neighbourhood.
Right now, I’m glad to be part of Appetite, it’s the best decision I have made this year and I wish I did it earlier. I am looking forward to planning for the new year 2026.
If you’re wondering about whether you should become an Appetite Ambassador, go for it! If you care about people, community, or creativity, even if you don’t see yourself as an arts person like me, you’ll find a home at Appetite. Being an Ambassador is rewarding, inspiring, and full of opportunities to learn and connect. You don’t need special qualifications, just enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved.
Thank you to Val, Monaliza, and all our Ambassadors – you really do make a difference!
Do you want to help shout about local events? Find out more about how you can become an Appetite Ambassador over on our website: https://appetite.org.uk/ambassadors/
