Tahlia Borlant
Hello, my name is Tahlia, and I’m incredibly proud to be Chair of belong.
Horsforth has been home to me since 2008, though my connection to the area goes back much further through family roots of my mother who owned a ladieswear boutique called ‘Plums’ and many happy childhood memories of visiting the outside Inn and Marionetti’s on Town street, familiar local faces, and the kind of community spirit that stays with you.
It’s one of the reasons I chose to raise my own children here, who all attend local schools and are growing up surrounded by that same warmth and sense of belonging.
Over the years I’ve built lifelong friendships and experienced firsthand what makes Horsforth such a special place. People looking out for one another, shared experiences and have a genuine sense of community.
That’s why belong feels so close to my heart. I’m excited to be part of something that celebrates connection, supports our community, and helps create more opportunities for people to come together.
I’m really looking forward to the journey ahead and to spreading a little more Horsforth love along the way..
Steven Copsey
I’ve lived in Horsforth for five years now and truly see myself here for the long haul. As someone from a working class background who was raised in Yorkshire, I feel like I really understand the opportunities that a supportive community can bring to everyone’s lives. Having a mum (on benefits) and a dad (van driver) who haven’t had the same opportunities as me – I’m acutely aware of the challenges faced by those who might feel they’ve been left behind.
I’m so passionate about making Horsforth a place where everyone feels like they belong, and this is my opportunity to help give something back.
Sarah Williams
Hi , my name is Sarah
Horsforth has felt like home far more quickly than I expected. Since moving here 18 months ago, I’ve been struck by the warmth of the community, the sense of local pride, and the way people genuinely look out for one another. It’s a place where small initiative matter and where people’s contributions truly make a difference.
Becoming involved with belong, allows me to be part of that spirit. It gives me the chance to contribute to something meaningful while meeting new people and feeling more connected to Horsforth.
With my background in finance, I’m motivated to support a charity at its early stages – helping to build solid foundations, ensure accountability, and create the conditions for long-term sustainability.
Outside of work, I’m usually getting lost in a book or attemption to sort out my garden with fairly limited skills. Both remind me of the value of patience and steady progress – qualities I hope to bring to my role as a trustee..
Claire Evans
Hi, I’m Claire.
For nearly 20 years, I’ve proudly called Horsforth home. It’s a wonderful place to live – and it’s the people who make it that way. Kezia and I first met in the playground when our children started primary school. We quickly bonded over a shared belief in shifting power to communities, and after years of working side by side, co‑founding belong. felt like the natural next step.
In 2019, I discovered my dream job: connecting people, celebrating community strengths, and helping local relationships flourish through asset‑based community development. I’ve always believed that everything starts with a cup of tea and a chat – and from there, amazing things can happen. One of my favourite examples is Horsforth Community Garden: an idea from one resident that has grown into a much‑loved community asset improving countless lives.
I’m passionate about helping communities thrive. Over the years, I’ve worked alongside residents, volunteers, community groups and local organisations to support a wide range of initiatives, including the Horsforth Community Assets Project. Through strong partnerships with other community leaders, we’ve delivered the Household Support Fund, established the Horsforth Community Pantry, and launched the Listening Project – which will shape the heart of our work going forward.
I believe strong communities are built when people are empowered to share their skills, spark new ideas and take collective action. Through collaboration, relationships and a commitment to community‑led change, I’m dedicated to helping create a more resilient, connected and vibrant Horsforth.
My goal through ‘belong’ is to help build a Horsforth where everyone feels they have a place, a voice and the power to shape the future of their community.
Kezia Roberts
Hi my name is Kezia.
I have lived in Horsforth for 18 years now! I adore our little big Town and have always managed to find passionate and enthusiastic people that either live, visit or work here who feel exactly the same as me. Claire was one of these people. I met Claire whilst doing one of my many projects and often chatted at the school pick up from St Margarets, we united in our love for Horsforth and our keeness to ensure everyone has a voice to make things even better.
I have a love for all things creative and have been chair of the Horsforth Walk of Art since Dec 2018. I am not good at just sitting around so I take on many other community projects such as Leeds civic trusts’ Take a seat initiative, The Halloween Horrid History Hop, Summer Arts Club, Little free library, The Lantern festival, Cardboard theatre as part of the Green Festival, Chase the rainbow, Countdown to Christmas and also represented Horsforth in Leeds 23 City of Culture.
I am a qualified project and change manager with over 20 years experience and a freelance community events manager. I am also part of a professional band that plays up and down the UK.
I am a huge believer in making your community what you want and need it to be. Friendly, welcoming, creative, clean, sustainable, supportive and with a sprinkling of fun.
