Sidra: Marketing Intern

Charity

Manchester Active Voice Youth Empowerment

Why did you choose to do an SEI?

I chose to take part in the SEI because I thought it would be an interesting way to spend my summer holidays. I was working in a not-for-profit organisation called ‘Manchester Active Voices Youth Empowerment’ which helps young disadvantaged people to become leaders in their communities through one to one mentoring; along with moving from a position of social alienation, to one of personal empowerment.

Give a brief snapshot of your role

  • Designed and produced leaflets and posters.
  • Created and maintained the organisation’s social media pages.
  • Attended meetings and trips to meet the mentees with mentors and different community projects/organisations.

What were the most enjoyable aspects of your role?

It was interesting to see the difference and impact mentoring sessions can have upon individuals’ lives, transforming them completely! The mentors themselves were people who had previously been mentees and had succeeded the programme - I was able to see the difference on people’s lives first-hand!

Did you have any worries or concerns before your internship? Were these overcome and if so how?

I was a little wary of applying at first, as whilst being interested in designing and social media in my personal time; I didn’t really have marketing or advertising in my list of future career options. However, upon starting I realised that marketing was not the only aspect of my work. Because the team where I was working was so small, I felt as though I was able to get involved in more things than what was listed on the job description. I attended group meetings, went on trips to see mentees, got to look at confidential reports and many other things.

What did you gain most from the role in terms of insights and skills?

It was inspiring to meet people who do so much for the community that usually goes unheard of. I gained insight into the work of different community organisations that emerge from grass root levels.

Do you have any words of wisdom for future interns?

Don't be afraid to try something new, even if it’s not directly related to what you might want to do in the future! There’s always room for you to try out new things on your internship so don’t restrict or limit yourself. There are lots of opportunities that you can get involved with once you start working – all you have to do is ask!