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Education
Degree in English Literature from Oxford University, Masters in Development Studies from School of Oriental and African Studies.
So, what do you actually do?
I advise Amnesty International UK (AIUK) on what our policy should be in relation to gender and human rights issues. My particular focus is on violence against women.
How did you get into the job?
In 2003 I was invited to join an external advisory group of NGOs and individuals advising AIUK on their new campaign Stop Violence Against Women. I was a family lawyer specialising in domestic violence cases and, since 1997, I have been involved in Southall Black Sisters, an NGO that represents black and ethnic minority women fleeing domestic and sexual violence. I then wrote a report on the UK’s international human rights obligations to protect immigrant women from gender-based violence, and soon after applied for the job.
What does your typical day involve?
A mixture of meetings with colleagues and representatives from other NGOs and responding to external and internal queries regarding our policy on gender. Lobbying work, involving meetings with MPs and accompanying our director to meetings with ministers. Every couple of weeks I have speaking engagements on violence against women issues.
What skills and experience do you need to work in this sector?
I had 11 years' experience in gender-related issues as a campaigner and professional. Experience of research or lobbying work in your field is essential. You also need a broad understanding of international human rights law.
What’s the most memorable experience you’ve had in this job?
Working in partnership with Channel 4, UNICEF UK and Anti Slavery International on the issue of women and girls who are trafficked into the UK and forced into prostitution. C4 produced an excellent and very harrowing drama, Sex Traffic. It gave NGOs a fantastic tool to campaign with.
What are the best things about your job?
When I joined I was surprised by how much politicians do seek our advice and work closely with us. We also have a very active membership who do excellent work on mobilising support for our campaigns.
And the worst things?
Emails – the volume and the amount of time it takes to get through them.
Any top tips for someone wanting to get into this work?
Join your Amnesty group at school, college or your local group – if you haven’t got one, you can form one! Working in a voluntary capacity will give you an idea of the work that we do and whether you want to pursue a career in human rights work.
Amnesty International UK
www.amnesty.org.uk