Alex & Alfie

Alex was 18 when she first started working as a support worker for young disabled people in Suffolk. Realising her passion was for disability, Alex went on to study Special Education Needs & Disability Studies at the University of Suffolk, achieving a First Class degree and winning Dissertation of the Year Award 2018 for her research titled “An exploration into the perspectives of young men with Down’s Syndrome on love.” She founded Project 21 in September 2018.

Alex’s first experience of Down’s Syndrome was Alfie.

Alfie was 11. He loved to sing and dance, and a total comedy genius. They met every Saturday and developed a great friendship. Through her relationship with Alfie, Alex found herself immersed in the Down’s Syndrome community. She ran voluntary trips for Alfie and his friends to London theatres and organised regular meet-ups for the group.

Alex started to realise the provision in place for young disabled people was not catering to the needs and wants of the people who accessed it. Many provisions for disabled people consist of unchallenging and unimaginative activities. This was where the idea for Project 21 was born; a charity providing innovative, exciting experiences and opportunities for people of all ages and abilities with Down’s Syndrome, helping them to exceed expectations and continually push boundaries.

Alfie captured Alex’s heart over a decade ago, and life has never looked the same for either of them since. Alfie’s determination and zest for life completely inspired Alex; showing her what the world looked like in full colour again.

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“People with Down’s Syndrome deserve more. They are an integral part of humanity and deserve to be included as such. Here’s to a brighter future where people with Down’s Syndrome are celebrated, believed and go on to change the world.”

Alexandra Munn - Founder

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PROJECT 21 TEAM

AlexFounder & Project Manager

Alex is the Founder of Project 21 and orchestrates the marketing, PR, events and fundraising aspects within the charity. She oversees the running of all three branches in Cambridgeshire, Essex and Suffolk. In any (rare) spare time, Alex’s second passion in life is traveling and seeing new places. If you would like to contact Alex, her email is alex@project21uk.com.

JessicaDeputy Manager

Jess joined the charity in 2020, progressing to management in 2023. Jess is our creative lead, and her role includes the planning and delivering of our day opportunities (tailor-made and bespoke provisions for people with Down’s Syndrome). Jess additionally supports with all other activities the charity offers, including regular respite and residential opportunities.
If you’d like to contact Jess, her email is jessf@project21uk.com.

Rob Assistant Manager & Work placement coordinator (from June 2024)

ShellieAdministrator & PA (to Project Manager)

Shellie is our charity administrator and PA. In search of a new challenge and change in career, she joined the team in April 2023. Outside of keeping the charity organised, Shellie’s hobbies include sewing, floristry and spending time with her husband and three boys. If you would like to contact Shellie, her email is shellie@project21uk.com.