Sam Yates
Founder of Purple Pin Limited
Sam has a professional background as a qualified solicitor and teacher, with ‘lived experience’ of access and inclusion challenges presented by built environments and ableist assumptions.
Sam provides access and inclusion advice on the Planning Committee and the Heritage Open Days group for Leeds Civic Trust.
Sam has completed the NRAC Inclusive Design Training Course for Built Environment Professionals and the CAE course on Access to Historic Buildings and Environments. Sam is also a member of the Access Association.
Alfie Yates
The inspiration behind Purple Pin
Alfie is studying History of Art at the University of York.
He loves visiting galleries and museums and going to the theatre. The Brudenell Social Club in Leeds is his favourite music venue.
He is also a massive fan of watching live sport, particularly rugby league. When and where venues are accessible, he enjoys a simple trip to the pub to socialise with his friends.
Alfie was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy when he was 3 years old. He uses a powered wheelchair.
He is creative and determined at finding ways and means to overcome the barriers to access and inclusion that he comes across.
Alfie is joint owner, co-director and source of inspiration for Purple Pin Limited.