Tell us a bit about why you decided to join Bellona?

I operate as a Creative Solutions Architect, capitalising on creative strategy to empower others. As a young professional I initially set out without a roadmap and often found myself desiring a mentor. Through the course of this journey I have been met with discouragement that is rooted in antiquated biases; and recognised the severe mentor-gap young women are facing in their professional walk. I believe Bellona joins an imperative movement to provide young women with access to mentorship and rid cultures of the falsehood that equal opportunity is negotiable in a thriving society. There is a misconception that the power of a woman, disqualifies the power of a man and his role. It endorses the idea that either power flourishes by the neglect of the other. We are here to shift the narrative.

What is the best part about your role?

Seeing the growth of our relationship as a committee; is not specific to my role, something we have each been privileged to witness and invest effort in. As Creative Director I have thoroughly enjoyed the members participating in the processes I have initiated. The personalities and varied experiences behind the work come out across each project and stepping stone. These formidable individuals make our brand a whole.

Tell us about your personal and professional growth while being part of the Bellona team?

I have been able to unpick my weaknesses by being in a safe space with individuals I respect and have accountability to. Here lies plenty of opportunity and action for growth. Professionally, I have learned a lot about keeping an idea and organisation on fire — one that is purely volunteer-based. We all have our skin in the game, there is weight in a venture where each person puts purpose before paycheck.

What is a typical day at work like for you?

In the summer it begins at 5 am, out into nature for a run with the dogs. The exercise wakes my brain and nature keeps the peace. The work that I do is primarily project-based / contractual with entrepreneurs and NGOs; no day is necessarily the same. Certain rhythms are important to maintain however, daily prayer and journaling keep me centered and on a compass.

Words you live by.

I hold on to certain words and imagery depending on the season I am in. The words of Nelson Henderson, “To plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit” Ring true to the life I hope to look back on. A daily mindset I strive to pursue.

The first stanza of William Blake’s ‘The Auguries of Innocence’ has always been a verse I’ve held steadfast: ”To see a World in a Grain of Sand / And a Heaven in a Wild Flower / Hold Infinity in the palm of your hand  / And Eternity in an hour.”

If I can continue to see the depth and delight in this world through the small details; there is very little that cannot be overcome and joy that cannot be given freely.