Please introduce yourself and give a brief overview of what you do.
I have worked at WEN for around 2 ½ years. I started on a food project and also worked on Climate Sisters, a programme that aims to amplify and centre the voices of the underrepresented and marginalised women in the climate space. I became Head of Organisational Development in June this year. This role oversees operations, strategy and the structure of WEN, focusing on positive changes.
What was your route into the sustainable food sector?
I actually studied sculpture at university, then ended up working in the jewellery industry for 10 years. My outlook changed after having my son in 2015 and when I got made redundant, I realised this was my chance to do something different. I knew that I wanted to work in the third sector and with people for positive change. Having a child had got me more involved in the local community. I didn’t know how to make the transition but just started applying for jobs. I then had a chance meeting with someone from The Harington Scheme and he encouraged me to apply there, so I did and got the job! I became a Learning Support Assistant for young people with learning differences and disabilities. I realised I loved working outside. I then applied to WEN (on the advice of my friend) and started off working on Limborough Food Hub. This was my first time working in the food sector, but I was able to utilise all my growing knowledge and local expertise having lived or worked in Tower Hamlets since 2006. This was part of the Just FACT project, an eye opening experience, as I discovered all the other food activity that is happening in the borough.
What’s the best thing about the work you do?
I love seeing the real breadth of the work that WEN does from grassroots level to policy. It’s very rewarding to see how you can make change from all levels. On a personal level, I love being able to feel like I’m making positive changes for people and feeling like my work matters.
What challenges or obstacles have you faced in your career and how have you overcome them?
A lack of self-confidence. I overcame this by managing a series of personal life challenges and through the wisdom of age! This made me realise that I can do more. I was always academic at school, and this reminded me that I was capable of learning. I also became comfortable with being uncomfortable which pushed myself to try new things.
‘What’s the worst that could happen? Just go for it, because you never know what the outcome might be’.
Finally, having strong friendships and an encouraging network that believes in you was invaluable.
What has inspired your work in this movement?
The feeling that people can make change when they come together (for example, the miners' strike). I believe in the power of community coming together to make positive change happen at all levels, big or small.
What are your hopes for the future?
I hope that we can find ways to work together more. There is so much in the world that is trying to divide us and things will not change if we are only looking out for ourselves. We need to work together as a society and it has to be a positive choice we make together.
What advice would you give to anyone that is passionate about sustainable food systems and wants to work in this sector?
Start small, for example, by volunteering locally. Build your network, people are generally supportive. Finally, don’t be afraid to apply for things, as you never know and if you don’t apply you will never get it!
Any other thoughts you want to share?
Working in the third sector and with communities is not always smooth sailing and harmonious. There can be conflicts so sometimes you have to surrender to the greater good, look at the bigger picture and leave your ego at the door.
