Our Team
Samantha Wallace

Tania Horn

Nicolette Shears-White

Hello, I’m Sam, one of the Directors at AC - Aspire Connections CIC. I’m passionate about creating a safe, supportive, empowering environment where people can grow, build confidence, and experience meaningful opportunities every day.
My career has taken me through a variety of roles in education, well-being, support services, and health & safety, giving me a grounded, person-centered approach to leadership. Alongside my role at AC, I’m also a BACP qualified counsellor, bringing my understanding of emotional well-being, empathy, and safe practice into the heart of the work we do.
I believe in professionalism, ethical practice, and leading by example—while always staying open, honest, and committed to continual learning.
Outside of work, life is happily busy with my children, husband, family and friends – and of course our pets: Frank the Bulldog, Beau the Spaniel and Artie the horse. My children keep me busy with horse riding, rugby and all the usual family life. When I do get a quiet moment, I love to study and learn new things.
Hi, I’m Tania, and I’m really glad to have the opportunity to work with you. My background spans finance, administration and education, and over the years I’ve learned just how important it is to meet every person exactly where they are. I take a truly person-centered approach in my work because I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported in a way that is meaningful to them. Helping people move toward their hopes and dreams is not just part of my job — it’s something I genuinely care about.
Kindness is at the heart of everything I do. Whether I’m guiding someone through a challenge, celebrating progress, or simply being a steady, reliable presence, I aim to create an environment where people feel safe, respected, and valued. I’ve seen the difference that a compassionate approach can make, and it’s something I’m committed to bringing into every interaction.
One of the highlights of my journey so far was being part of a special project that went on to receive the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. Being involved in something that had such a positive impact on the community was incredibly meaningful to me, and it’s an experience that continues to inspire the way I work today.
Outside of work, I try to keep life balanced and full of the things I love. I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, whether that’s sharing a meal, catching up, or just enjoying a quiet moment together. I also have a wonderfully energetic cocker spaniel named Rosie, who keeps me on my toes and makes even the simplest walk feel like an adventure. When I want to unwind, you’ll usually find me doing something crafty — I love creating, experimenting, and letting my imagination take the lead.
I’m really looking forward to working with you and supporting you in whatever way I can. My aim is to make your experience positive, uplifting, and centered around what matters most to you.
Hi, I'm Nic, one of the directors at AC, Aspire Connections. I have over 33 years of experience working with people with a learning disability. I began working within residential care, then day services and am a qualified social worker. Working within a wide variety of services has given me valuable experience across a range of needs, environments and individuals. These roles have helped me to develop a strong understanding of person-centered care, safeguarding, communication and support planning.
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I'm passionate about supporting people with learning disabilities to live happy, meaningful lives. I work in a person-centered way, making sure the people I support are at the heart of every decision.
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I love building up a rapport with individuals, finding out about their interests, dreams and what makes them smile. Seeing someone grow in confidence, learn new skills and achieve things that matter to them is very motivating.
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Outside of work i enjoy spending time in the countryside, going swimming and being with my friends and family. We have two cats, Martin and Gloria, two guinea pigs Caramel and George a snake Hunter and Henry the pony. Staying active and connected to people I care about is really important to me.
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I'm proud to be part of a service where everyone is valued, included and supported to live life in their own way.