Diversity, equity and inclusion runs through everything we do as we help to create a world where people living with disabilities thrive in the workplace and in our communities. As a company with a global presence, we nurture a culture where differences are celebrated and everyone is welcome to be themselves, belong and have a voice that impacts the business.
Meet our people - UK
“Many of us can’t imagine what a day in the life of someone with a disability is like – through the work we're doing, here at Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, we are educating both ourselves and others while increasing public awareness about the challenges that some people face.”
Communications Manager - UK, Chantal Boyle, is responsible for our social media channels in the UK and manages the Sunflower Conversations, our weekly podcast that delivers a deeper understanding of the Sunflower's role in supporting people with non-visible disabilities.
Prior to this, Chantal was a Corporate Responsibility Executive where she managed community and staff engagement for the shopping centre landlord, intu.
"Little things like an offer of help when you need it can make a huge difference and start to help break down obstacles to being able to pursue your dreams."
As Chief Brand Officer at Sunflower, Annette Cmela ,leads the global marketing strategy and brand development, driving awareness and advocacy for people with non-apparent disabilities. Passionate about inclusivity, she is committed to fostering a world where accessibility is the norm, not the exception—removing social, virtual, and environmental barriers so that everyone can fully participate and contribute.
With over two decades of experience in brand strategy, design, and marketing leadership, Annette has built a reputation for crafting compelling narratives that inspire change. Before joining Sunflower, she served as Global Head of Brand and Design at Canaccord Genuity, a leading financial services firm, where she spearheaded international brand initiatives and transformed corporate identity strategies. Her expertise spans multiple industries, including finance, technology, and social impact, allowing her to bring a unique perspective to accessibility and inclusion.
Beyond her professional role, Annette is a passionate advocate for disability awareness, regularly speaking at conferences and engaging with global organisations to drive positive change. She believes that small acts of kindness and understanding can create ripple effects, opening doors for individuals who face unseen challenges.
"Everyone should not only be treated equally but given the opportunity and assistance needed to be equal. No one should be left out regardless of ability, gender, race, or culture."
Operations Manager, Rob Kelly, manages the company’s finances, operational systems and customer service desk.
Rob previously held management positions within the hospitality industry until eight years ago when he began working in finance, administration, and operations.
"Supporting people with non-visible disabilities is important to me as I have friends and family with hidden conditions which has caused me to appreciate the daily challenges they face. From a young age, I have helped support my mum who has a non-visible disability."
Customer Services Executive, Rebecca Mears, deals with all of our customer enquiries ensuring queries, questions or issues are resolved.
Rebecca previously worked for a leading IT company in the escalations department. She has also worked in large businesses in the private sector handling a wide range of account, technical and legal queries.
"Having a non-visible disability dramatically affects how people perform in everyday life and the nature of the disability makes it difficult for other people to recognise them."
Global Business Director, Ruth Rabét, raises awareness among businesses and other organisations throughout the UK. Ruth is also responsible for the growing network of global airports that have adopted the Sunflower.
Prior to this, Ruth spent 35 years working in Aviation holding various roles in Airline Operations. Her final 5 years were spent managing the Assistance Team at Gatwick Airport, a role that would see her play an integral part in creating the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.
"It is amazing to work for such a supportive brand who are changing the perception of invisible disabilities, and I am proud to be a part of that change. I hope my experience can also improve the usability and shopping experience of the website for Sunflower wearers."
eCommerce Marketing Manager, Shannon Ryan, previously worked for a luxury jewellery brand managing the daily operations of their site. Maintaining their sales, site optimisation and customer experience. As well as also handling customer requests, orders and stock management.
"Working as part of the Sunflower team is important to me to improve public awareness and understanding of people living with non-visible disabilities."
Production and Moving Image Designer, Paul Shriever, is the creator of our animations and training videos. Paul previously worked at a number of award-winning brand consultancies Wolff Olins and The Clearing to name a few.
"I have a genuine desire to ensure that the wearers of the Sunflower receive the patience, care and understanding they may need throughout their day, by whoever they meet, wherever they may travel."
CEO, Paul White, is a passionate and dedicated advocate for disability rights, driving real change as the global CEO of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. With an unwavering commitment to inclusivity, accessibility and championing equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities, Paul has a genuine desire to ensure that the wearers of the Sunflower receive the patience, care and understanding they may need throughout their day from whoever they meet, wherever they may travel.
Paul was part of the original team that founded the Sunflower back in 2016 and is committed to raising awareness of the Sunflower on a global level.