Trustee of the Month – Rachel Gemine
Date: 25 April 2025
This is a new monthly feature so our community can meet and find out more about our Trustees. This month we meet Rache Gemine, Assistant Director of Evidence, Evaluation and Effectiveness, NHS Wales Joint Commissioning Committee and also R&D Forum Trustee
Where were you born and Where is home now?
I was born in Swansea and despite moving away for many years, I now live back in Swansea in Wales. It is a beautiful part of the country and we are right at the entrance to the Gower with its beautiful beaches.
What was your first job?
My very first job was working in a Kennels and Cattery looking after pets while the owners were away. I have had many jobs over the years in pubs, restaurants, on farms but my first ‘proper’ job was in research in Cardiff University, working on an amazing study looking at the genetics of ADHD. I learnt so much in this role and it really drove my passion for R&D.
What is your favourite food?
This is a tricky one… it really depends on my mood. I really like pad thai or pizza but I am very much a desert person. At the moment my go to desert is blueberries and Greek yogurt with granola, maybe more of a breakfast but is great at any time!
What is your favourite film?
I am absolutely rubbish at watching tv, I can’t remember the last film I saw, maybe Moana with my daughter. I have always loved Watership Down, although it makes me cry like a baby at the end. And there is a great film about free climbing El Capitan in Yosemite National Park – ‘Free Solo’. If you haven’t seen it then I highly recommend!
What was the first album/single you ever bought?
I can’t remember the last film I saw, I have no hope with this one. I think it was a NOW…an early one
What are you most proud of personally or professionally?
My daughter, she is incredible. I am very lucky to have her.
You are stranded on a desert island – what one item you would take with you? (book, album, luxury item).
A boat? Practically speaking I should probably say a hat or suntan lotion but I would take my trainers and my Garmin (they come as a package), I run every day and so definitely need these –wait, how big is the desert island?
What do you enjoy most about being a Trustee?
The community. I have been a trustee for coming up to a year and the support from the other trustees and the wider community is amazing. Being a trustee is all about working together and utilising our strengths to maximise the impact of the Forum.