CharityComms

So, what do you actually do?

I look after all new media output of the Refugee Council including our main websites and microsites, our e-newsletters and other new media projects. I also act as an internal consultant advising on how new media can be used as a communication and dissemination tool for different projects.

How did you get into it?

I worked at the Science Museum 10 years ago on interactive exhibitions and was asked to look after the development of a website promoting a new set of galleries. From there I worked on several international development and science websites. I joined the Refugee Council over two years ago to develop their new media activities. All of my jobs have focussed on communication, interactivity and dissemination of information and I feel that new media is the most exciting method to do this.

What are the best things about your job?

The variety of work is the best thing about new media projects. There so many great ideas out there and it's constantly evolving. I believe that the internet has been as revolutionary as the printing press and it's very exciting for me to be part of that since the beginning. The best thing about working with the Refugee Council is meeting amazing people who have overcome tremendous barriers to rebuild their lives; I am constantly grateful for that privilege.

And the worst?

Our biggest barrier is the overwork of my colleagues. They are keen to get involved in new media projects but they have very little spare capacity to develop new ideas which is frustrating for me and them. Seeing the effect the asylum process has had on people can be really hard, especially on a day when the papers are particularly unsympathetic.

Where do you see your career heading in the future?

I feel I will always be involved in the new media sector and delivering for the voluntary sector. But the distinctions between "old" media and new media are becoming less and less so my career may evolve in a similar way. Besides, the internet didn't exist 15 years ago so who knows what the future holds!