The Team

Rhiannon J Davies


Founder/Editor

I moved to Govanahill in 2018 and was immediately struck by how different I felt living here compared to how Govanhill is often portrayed in much of the media. I have a background in magazines, journalism, journalism teaching and community development. I am passionate about the importance of having a truly diverse media which serves the community it covers. Starting the magazine seemed like a way to challenge negative perceptions about the area, provide a platform to marginalised voices and bring people together. Launching a social enterprise during a pandemic, while also becoming a new mum has been a challenge, but I’ve loved every second so far.

Dr Melissa Espinoza


Funding and Finance Officer

I moved to Scotland eight years ago and have called Govanhill home since 2020. Govanhill has a fascinating history of migration, which I can relate to and found a sense of belonging in. I believe that no community is voiceless; rather strategically ignored. I am committed to elevating underrepresented voices and sharing any platform I have with communities still striving to have their stories and knowledge valued. My commitment has led me to Greater Govanhill Magazine. Currently, I work as an international consultant, assisting various community-based organisations with fundraising and in operationalising their strategic plans and monitoring their impact through storytelling and data. When I am not working, you can find me walking my border collie down Victoria Road to Queen’s Park (I am even on google maps!) with a pastry in my hand and crumbs on my clothes.

Laura Hurst

Creative director

Having worked as a print-based graphic designer for over ten years I firmly believe that print isnae dead. So when the opportunity came up to work with Greater Govanhill magazine I pounced on it like a Queen’s Park squirrel. I’ve lived next door to Govanhill for nearly four years and love the eclectic nature of the place (especially the variety of signage and typography on Victoria Road!) One of the best parts of being a graphic designer is seeing your work transform into a tangible thing, and that’s never been more true for me than with Greater Govanhill. I’m really excited to see how it will grow and evolve in the future.

Samar Jamal

Journalist

I have a keen interest in community development and understanding how we can collectively tackle the issues on our doorstep. Additionally, I am constantly striving to research and write through an intersectional lens that considers varying aspects of social realities and how they affect specific individuals. And an enjoyer of all things sweet and spicy (not combined!) 

Catherine Weir


Newsroom Facilities Officer

I’m an artist and mother and recently appointed Facilities Officer at The Community Newsroom where I wrangle the co-working side of things.  I’m from a small town originally so the small town feel of Govanhill fits me very nicely and I’ve been calling this neighbourhood home for 16 years. When I’m not working here or freelancing in film & TV props I am out on my bike or at the swings or at a gig.

Devon McCole

Journalist

I am a recent multimedia journalism graduate coming from a working class background, of which I am proud. Growing up and living in both Castlemilk and Govanhill over the years has sparked my interest in community and community development, especially during such trying times. The opportunity to be a part of the Greater Govanhill team has further fanned the flames of my growing interest in building stronger communities for everyone, where opportunities and support networks are abundant and accessible. Projects such as this are really exciting and I hope to see the magazine grow and grow, so that everyone can feel the benefit of being a part of such a strong, vibrant and supportive community.

Our Contributors

These are just a few of the many community members who have contributed to the magazine so far. If you have contributed and you’d like to be featured here, send a picture and bio to hello@greatergovanhill.com

The Board

Clare HarrisI’m Clare, and I’m a journalist by trade with experience in publishing, advocacy and campaigns in the cultural and third sector. I work with an agency that helps organisations of all shapes and sizes communicate with their members. I’ve …

Clare Harris

I’m Clare, and I’m a journalist by trade with experience in publishing, advocacy and campaigns in the cultural and third sector. I work with an agency that helps organisations of all shapes and sizes communicate with their members.
I’ve lived in and near Govanhill for the past 16 years. It’s a brilliant place with lots of stories, and I’m excited to be part of the board of Greater Govanhill.

Tessa Ferry

Tessa grew up in the southside, and has returned back to the govanhill area after living in London, Galway and Nepal. Tessa is an experienced civil servant, currently working with the Scottish Government on international policy. Tessa brings skills in strategic planning, policy development and operational delivery to Greater Govanhill and is passionate about supporting the organisation's growth and success.

Naomi Magnus (pictured here with Rudi)I moved to Glasgow relatively recently for a job, and was excited to get involved with community organising from the get go, despite the lockdown. I first gained experience in community organising at uni, where I was the Local Action Officer for a small charity which aimed to tackle social challenges in the city by getting students more involved alongside local community orgs. I've since volunteered / worked with organisations focusing on the issues which matter most to me, such as climate change, education, support for refugees and asylum seekers, and racial justice and equality. I also sit on the Strategic Leadership Board of Na'amod: British Jews Against Occupation.

Naomi Magnus (pictured here with Rudi)

I moved to Glasgow relatively recently for a job, and was excited to get involved with community organising from the get go, despite the lockdown. I first gained experience in community organising at uni, where I was the Local Action Officer for a small charity which aimed to tackle social challenges in the city by getting students more involved alongside local community orgs. I've since volunteered / worked with organisations focusing on the issues which matter most to me, such as climate change, education, support for refugees and asylum seekers, and racial justice and equality. I also sit on the Strategic Leadership Board of Na'amod: British Jews Against Occupation.

Sam Gonçalves

Hi! My name is Sam Gonçalves. I'm a documentary filmmaker, writer and community organiser. I am originally from Brazil but during my time in Scotland have worked for The Ferret, Creative Dundee, Govanhill Baths, BBC, Vox Liminis and a few others. Govanhill is quickly becoming a home away from home for me and it is a pleasure to be on the Board at Greater Govanhill, where I can see so much of the creativity, solidarity and vibrancy of this community. 

Photo by Ben Douglas