About us

Hi I’m Cleo founder of ‘The Joy of… Collective’ a community for women who wish to build their own village while being an intentional villager themselves. For women who may be starting again and wish to reconnect with themselves and others. The community is based in Ipswich but is accessible online for those further a field.

In a world where kindness and community feels like rebellion, The Joy of… Collective is a response, an act of positive anarchy. Each of us are learning to be a conscious villager so each of us can build a village around ourselves while being an active part of other people’s villages.

Joy is Rebellion

You don't have to sacrifice yourself to experience Joy. You don't need to preform certain tasks to experience Joy. You don't have to earn your Joy. Joy is part of the human experience and can be found in the every day. I want to encourage others to slow down and reflect on what it is they really enjoy, what brings you Joy every day? Is the the birds singing in the morning? Your friend calling checking in on you via Videocall? Is it the dragonfly dancing over the lake? Your children's laughter?

What brings you Joy?

I started The Joy of... Collective March 2025 after moving back to Ipswich in 2021 I really wanted to create a community here that was truly there for each other and made the most of the area and local businesses. Ipswich is  small town but there is so much here and I truly believe it could be such a vibrant, joy filled, community focused placed to live. There is so much diversity here which is a great opportunity to learn about other cultures, traditions and eat sample foods from all over the world on your doorstep. There are many creative people in the town and so many are doing incredible things. 

I would speak to many women who were feeling isolated, or who had moved to the town with no family no friends no support whatsoever. Being a solo parent myself I know how difficult it can be to navigate the world in difficult circumstances. I wanted to create a place where women could come as they are, rediscover themselves, Build up confidence, connect with others and build real relationships with other women and to be seen, heard and understood. Ideally this community will be multi-generational as I believe we all can learn from each others experiences, perspectives and knowledge. Sharing ideas on how to move forward in a world that pits us against each other. Community is the way forward but to have a community you need to be part of the community. Give when you can in the ways you are able to, this may be a lift to the hospital, a listening ear, a care package doorstep drop, helping to clear a garden or home organising there are so many ways to be in community and the price of that is inconvenience.  

The Joy of… Collective’ has an open ended name, inviting YOU to explore and discover what brings YOU joy. What sparks joy within you?

The aim of ‘The Joy of… Collective’ is to

•Discover every day joy

•Facilitate connection between members so you can create/extend your own village

•Skills building and resources sharing

•Self discovery, acceptance and development while supporting your community do the same

•Exploration and learning through shared experiences and advice

Currently I run the collective by myself with the aim of bringing in community leaders who specialise in different subjects who can give advice and deliver workshops on topics that effect women.

Life was never meant to be lived alone and I truly believe we are stronger, safer, healthier, more content together.

The big dream is to build a village for women to live where they can grow their own food, explore creative interests, and feel a real sense of community. Alongside the village will be a hub that serves the community and the wider public as a café/gallery/events space and youth club.

Currently I run monthly meet-ups and gathering which you can check out here