In the space of 6 months, my time at the Alliance has given me a valuable insight into the heritage sector. As Advocacy & Communications Assistant, I have had the opportunity to work on fascinating tasks ranging from tracking data on our engagement with members on Twitter, to drafting responses for the recent DEFRA consultation on marine net gain.
At this point of reflection, I can measure my progress through our fortnightly Members’ Email and Heritage Update, both of which I initially started researching for and gradually produced summaries for and even published. A few other highlights include designing GIFs to share the Heritage Alliance’s current Strategy and with VocalEyes (sharing their guidance for accessible heritage sites), assisting with Heritage Debate, meeting our interns (getting line management experience) and working together in person in the new office! After studying for my MA in Art History & Museum Curating, it has been refreshing to transfer these skills to a professional workplace.
It has been a delight to work in such a fantastic team, all passionate about providing support and guidance to the growing number of Alliance members and the wider sector. Everyone has left me with a fond memory, setting the standard high for my future work colleagues.
I’d have to start with a big thank-you to my Line Manager Daniella, our Advocacy & Communications Officer who has been nothing short of wonderful – from ensuring that I was settled in at the start, assisting with daily tasks and teaching me about the fascinating world of communications. To Polly, our Head of Policy & Communications, thank you for developing my knowledge of policy topics and enabling me to have the confidence to carry out all tasks.
This appreciation is extended to the Membership & Development team consisting of the terrific duo that is Delphine and Claire. Both have been great in our project collaborations and are unstoppable in supporting members of the Alliance. Our CEO Lizzie has shown me that it is possible to manage multiple commitments and deadlines – it has been inspiring to see that amount of energy working in the sector. I wish Mia, our Policy & Projects officer, the best over the next few months with so much to look forward to! The Rebuilding Heritage project is led by another super duo that is Becky and India, providing us with interesting case studies and various resources that benefit individuals and collective organisations in the sector. It was also a pleasure to learn more about the work of the Historic Environment Forum from Mike, Aisling and Suzanne.
The Heritage Alliance is more than another organisation, everyone brings along a unique skill and presence that stays with you.
I look forward to the next time I cross paths with the Alliance.
All the best,
Lava Ali