Meet the Team

Forge and Equip was founded by Daniel and Linsey Melo da Silva with a simple but powerful vision: to create opportunities for people to learn practical skills, build confidence and discover their potential.

Together, they bring more than 40 years of experience in employability, training and community development. Throughout their careers, they have worked alongside individuals facing barriers to work, education and social inclusion, helping them gain the skills, support and encouragement needed to move forward.

In 2016, driven by a desire to make a lasting difference and a deep sense of faith, Daniel and Linsey left Scotland to establish a community project in Northeast Brazil. What began with limited resources grew into a thriving initiative providing practical training, employability support and mentoring opportunities. Over eight years, the project supported more than 60 individuals, with 70% progressing into sustainable employment. Instituto Engrenar remains part of the story and it is a joy to see the work continue with the current staff and trustees.

The lessons learned in Brazil shaped the foundations of Forge and Equip: practical learning, meaningful relationships and the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive.

Today, Forge and Equip combines welding and fabrication training, bespoke metalwork services and community-focused programmes to help people develop skills, confidence and purpose.

Meet Daniel

Daniel leads the workshop and training activities at Forge and Equip. With decades of experience in employability and skills development, he is passionate about helping people discover their abilities through practical, hands-on learning.

Whether working with trainees in the workshop or delivering bespoke fabrication projects, Daniel brings patience, encouragement and a commitment to high-quality workmanship.

Outside of Forge and Equip, he enjoys football, road trips and gathering people together around a barbecue.

Meet Linsey

Linsey oversees the administration, communications and organisational development that keep Forge and Equip running smoothly.

Having spent much of her career supporting charities, she is passionate about seeing the Third Sector thrive sustainably. Linsey is responsible for much of the behind-the-scenes work that enables Forge and Equip to deliver its programmes and serve its customers effectively.

When she's not working, you'll usually find her reading, supporting the local community or enjoying a good cup of coffee.

Meet Rebecca

Rebecca Bell is Forge and Equip's bookkeeper and a valued member of the team.

Alongside keeping our finances in order, Rebecca brings a wealth of experience in community development and a genuine passion for creating opportunities that transform lives. Together with her husband, she established a children's home in Cambodia, providing care, stability and hope to vulnerable young people.

Rebecca shares Forge and Equip's belief that everyone deserves the chance to flourish, and her dedication, wisdom and encouragement make her a truly important part of our journey.

Our Volunteers and Partners

Forge and Equip would not be possible without the incredible volunteers, supporters and partner organisations who stand alongside us.

From offering practical expertise and mentoring to providing resources, encouragement and opportunities, their contribution strengthens everything we do.

We are deeply grateful for the people and organisations who share our vision of building skills, confidence and brighter futures within our community.