Paula Watson FRSA is a humanistic psychotherapist and founder of YARDO Community, a non-profit company offering inclusive counselling and mindfulness-based programmes, in collaboration with grassroots leaders in West London. Her approach weaves evidence-based practice, Buddhist ethics and ethical allyship into radically accessible, community initiatives.

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A former Trustee of The Mindfulness Network, Paula’s 30-year journey began in 1990s Brixton, where she practised meditation within an arts and eco-activist collective called CoolTan. She went on to manage a multicultural media training centre for marginalised youth; work recognised through the award of a NESTA Fellowship. In 2001 she authored the television industry report Pitch Black – from the margin to the mainstream and helped develop Channel 4’s pioneering Diversity Database.

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Today, Paula is a member of her local NHS Mental Health Integrated Neighbourhood Team, championing mindfulness-based support for grassroots communities and mental health patients. She hosts the Adventures in Community Mindfulness podcast and is soon to launch ‘YARDO Pro’ - a CPD pathway supporting mindfulness teachers to build financial sustainability while expanding access to mindfulness.

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She is an active member of her local community and currently serves on the Advisory Board of Do It Now Now (DiNN), supporting innovation in Black-led, social impact work.

www.yardo.co.uk | [Adventures in Community Mindfulness Podcast]