Clean Break's Executive Director explores the 2026 Black History Month theme of 'Honouring our Communities', sharing reflections on the spaces and people she's found community in
Natasha Bucknor MBE joined Clean Break as Interim Executive Director and Joint CEO towards the end of 2024, and in April 2026 joined the team on a permanent basis. Natasha is a supportive and principled leader, who the team at Clean Break values greatly. With the theme this Black History Month focusing on community leaders who make a huge difference but aren't always centre stage, it felt fitting to take this opportunity to spotlight Natasha on our Knowledge Hub.
Tell us about the communities that you have been part of that have shaped who you are today?
I grew up in Knowsley in Merseyside in the 1970’s and we were one of the only Black families in the area. Whilst there were some tough moments in the early years for us to navigate as a family, they were and remain my main sense of community and belonging.
My interest in theatre started at an early age and joining the Everyman’s Youth Theatre was a game changer. I met other Black, mixed, and white kids that were all passionate about the same thing – theatre and performing. It was life changing. It was a place of acceptance and gave me the confidence to go on to study Drama at University.
Tell us about Black community leaders who have inspired you – from past and present, in your own life and beyond
As a teenager there were a couple of productions that inspired me. I saw Talawa Theatre Company’s production of The Gods are not to Blame, by Ola Rotimi at the Everyman, directed by Yvonne Brewster OBE. It was the first time I had seen Black actors onstage. I followed Yvonne’s work and Talawa religiously after that, and it was a dream come true to eventually work for the company as Executive Director, along with Artistic Director Michael Buffong. Yvonne had long since left by then, but she along with co-founders, Mona Hammond, Carmen Munroe and Inigo Espejel left a powerful legacy and I really did feel like I was standing on the shoulders of giants.
I also vividly remember seeing Black Heroes in the Hall of Fame. It was mayhem, everyone was trying to get a ticket. That production was the epitome of Black History and has acquired legendary status. I do not think I have experienced that level of audience elation since then. It was a beautiful thing to see people like you onstage and being celebrated. It was a lovely surprise recently to discover that Clean Break Member Paulette performed in the original production. It’s a small world.
It is interesting, as when I was developing my career as an Administrator and General Manager, there were not many Black leaders already occupying these types of roles, most were making strides as actors and directors. But when you did get to be around those that were, like Hilary Carty who now runs Clore Leadership, it was always special. Oftentimes Hilary and others may not even have realised that they were supporting me, but by taking an interest in you, asking how you are, did make a difference. I knew that I was not alone and that it was possible.
I am part of a network of Global Majority Executive Directors, who mostly work in theatre and music. The group has been a real source of inspiration and a place of community. It’s fortifying to be in a community where everyone understands the pressures and scrutiny that often comes with being in a leadership position. I am particularly thankful to Valarie Synmoie who organises this, and to regular contributor Amanda Parker, who pushes us to think big.
What does being part of the Clean Break community mean to you?
I have admired Clean Break from afar for many years, so it is a real privilege to be part of the community. I feel lucky to be here. I recently had the opportunity to meet Clean Break founders Jacki Holborough and Jenny Hicks, who are continuing to be inspiration to our team.
What makes the Clean Break community special?
Clean Break is a special place; there have been many pinch me moments. I do not think that I have ever worked anywhere else that has a team that is as passionate about the work. It’s also amazing to be able to work with and for the Members – who are even more passionate about the difference that Clean Break makes in their lives. It spurs you on to want to do your best.
How do you practice self-care as a community leader?
I have tried different things over the years, and if I am honest, it is still a work in progress. The key thing is accepting that I do have limitations, I cannot do it all! I have learnt that I need to have the basics covered. For me that is finding a balance that works for me between work and home, having a routine helps. There’s a rhythm that I follow when I work from home, get an early start with time blocked out in my calendar for intensive work often resulting in a slightly longer day, to a completely different approach when I’m in the office, the door is open for informal chats and emails. I also know when it’s time to switch off. I’m very protective of my holidays and turn off emails and messages. I’ve learnt that someone will call if there is an emergency.
What advice do you have for other Black women who are in leadership positions, or considering it in their future?
The Black women in leadership are already brilliant. I would not offer any advice unless a peer asks me, but I do say I’m here if they need me and really mean it. Leaders have done that for me in the past and I have taken them up on it.
For Black women considering leadership, my advice would be to understand your motivations. Know your own value and your values, as there will be challenges along the way. Most importantly, build your own communities, people that will cheer you on and give you honest feedback. To me, asking for help when you need it is a sign of strength.
