When you were at Brighton College, what did you want to be when you ‘grew-up’?
I had no idea what I wanted to be when I ‘grew up’. I’d like to say I just went with the flow and hoped for the best but the pressure to know what I wanted to be when I grew up left me feeling inadequate and confused at times. One day my tutor Mr Mitchell “Mitch” sensing my anxiety said “no one knows what they’re doing so just do what you enjoy” and that’s what I’ve tried to do.
Tell us about yourself now you've grown up.
I’m inquisitive (not nosy!), I love travelling, and exploring different cultures and am really lucky to have spent the bulk of my career doing it too. I’m less unsure of myself and proud of the person I’m becoming.
What about your life now would most surprise your Brighton College teachers?
I don’t think anything would surprise my teachers. I was encouraged to be exploratory and think of a world without limits.
What are your favourite memories of your time at school?
It’s the everyday moments for me. Justine’s aloofness, Sal’s music, Tosin’s messy room, Wumi and Ella’s debates, Tash and I trekking down to Kemp Town Deli, Mr Gabriele telling me off for not pulling my weight. All of it!
What advice would you give to your school-age self?
Spend more time enjoying today and less time worrying about tomorrow.
What do you do as a career?
I am an international public policy and programme management professional with experience in the UK civil service, the UN, and international policy environments. I have always been passionate about access to quality education and started off my career working in the space. I randomly work in tax now but hopefully, I’ll find my way back into education at some point!
What does your work involve?
I currently work with revenue authorities in Rwanda, Ghana, and Sierra Leone to raise revenues to sustainably fund their development.
What are the most challenging parts of your job?
Persuading senior officials with differing views to buy into a single vision to achieve change.
What are you most proud of?
Seeing the people I’ve managed over the years grow in confidence and be promoted into jobs they truly love.
What are the three objects you would take with you to a desert island?
A bible, a notebook, a tent.
How would you like to be remembered?
I would like to be remembered as a woman of integrity who was generous and didn’t take herself too seriously.