Meet Our Team & Founder
A dedicated group of professionals and advocates working to create a safe, supportive nest for carers in Kent.
Behind CalmNest
Leadership & Team
Founder & Director
Esther Ayanwale
Health & Social Care Professional • Level 7 NVQ • Mental Health First Aider
The establishment of CalmNest CIC stems from both professional experience and personal conviction. As a dedicated Health and Social Care professional and Mental Health First Aider, I have spent over four years working directly within the care sector. Throughout this time, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges that carers and support workers face daily, challenges that often go unnoticed, yet deeply impact their wellbeing and quality of care delivery.
Holding a Level 7 NVQ in Health and Social Care Management, I have led teams, supported individuals in vulnerable circumstances, and observed first-hand how the wellbeing of carers directly influences the standard of care provided. Despite their commitment, many carers experience burnout, emotional exhaustion, and mental strain, often working long hours with limited support systems in place.
“Carers often pour from an empty cup. CalmNest CIC was founded on the belief that those who dedicate their lives to caring for others deserve a space to be cared for themselves.”
— Esther Ayanwale, Founder & Director
Clinical & Advisory Support
Our team is strengthened by experienced professionals who bring expertise in healthcare, leadership, and community support. A registered nurse with extensive experience across various medical and surgical settings offers valuable clinical insight gained from working closely with carers and healthcare professionals. Complementing this expertise is another team member who serves in an advisory capacity, providing strategic guidance and practical support for our mental health education and resilience programmes. Together, they help shape our initiatives, ensuring we deliver meaningful, effective, and impactful support to the communities we serve.
Our Ethos
Carers Deserve Care Too
At CalmNest, our team is built on a foundation of empathy, shared experiences, and professional dedication. Many of us have been carers ourselves and understand firsthand the unique pressures, triumphs, and exhaustion that come with caring roles.
We are committed to bridging the gap between professional guidance and compassionate community support. Meet the people who guide our sessions, facilitate our workshops, and keep CalmNest running.
Compassionate Care
Every member of our team is chosen for their empathy, dedication, and lived experience in caregiving roles.
Professional Excellence
We combine warm peer support with clinical expertise, mental health training, and best practices.
Safe Environment
We ensure all facilitators are fully accredited, certified, and committed to creating a secure, trusted space.