About us

Sam Burns

Co-founder of Social Connective, Sam's drive to contribute towards enhancing the environment we live in, led to the start of the Repair Cafes in the local area.

 He has a deep passion for the heritage of Stoke-on-Trent and the Potteries, where he actively contributes to preserving and promoting the region’s rich history in his role as Trustee for Re-Form Heritage, who look after Middleport Pottery.

In his full time role as Quantity Surveyor for the Canal & River Trust, he draws on his expertise to help preserve their network for future generations.

Sarah Aynsley

Co-founder of Social Connective Sarah also runs Amelia's café. Sarah is passionate about community engagement and having grown up in Stoke-on-Trent wanted to give something back to the community.

 With a passion for anything creative you'll often find Sarah running craft events or in the Café at our community hive events. 

In her day job Sarah teaches medicine at Keele University and runs student community engagment events. 

Merlin Galantini

With years of experience in retail and hospitality, Merlin is customer service oriented and enjoys working with the community. With a degree in Media, he enjoys filmmaking and illustration in his spare time.

His hobbies include hiking, running and camping. When not at work, you can usually find him out on walks or playing board games.

After volunteering as a Scout leader for many years, Merlin now enjoys the meet and greet of the front desk at many Social Connective events.