Why did you decide to volunteer with EIDA?
I first came across EIDA a few years ago in my capacity as a journalist. I was given a brief to write an article about domestic abuse and the workplace. I interviewed EIDA for that article, and could immediately see the vital role the organisation played in supporting employers, as well as victims and survivors. Until I spoke to EIDA, I hadn’t fully appreciated how much businesses could make a difference, and how they could safeguard and support those in need. I also hadn’t realised that businesses themselves were struggling to get access to the resources they needed to build their own internal policies and domestic abuse frameworks. There were many initiatives out there, but none directly aimed at employers. So I was thrilled to have a chance to volunteer with EIDA in a communications capacity.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering for EIDA?
EIDA is comprised of a small team of brilliant and dedicated people who really punch above their weight, in my opinion! It’s always been a pleasure to work with them. It’s also been a real privilege to have the opportunity to speak to many of the EIDA Ambassadors about their own experiences of domestic abuse. They have taken some of the worst moments of their lives and used those experiences to support others and offer up really valuable insight and expertise. I have learnt a lot from them.
What do you do when you’re not volunteering at EIDA?
I wear many hats. My day job is journalism. I edit a magazine and write articles, mostly about the impact investment industry, looking at issues such as development finance, climate change and the transition to net zero, as well as social initiatives around diversity, equity and inclusion, for example. I am also a novelist. I have three published novels out, and my fourth is coming out shortly. They are all based in Pakistan, where I grew up and spend a lot of my time. I love writing fiction, and I love reading it too.
What is your favourite quote?
“I’ve learned that I still have a lot to learn” – Maya Angelou.
Tell us something about you that few people know…
I am obsessed with ancient civilisations and archaeology and drive my family crazy by dragging them to places I want to explore, sometimes more than once! I particularly love archaeology in Pakistan, where I’ve been able to visit some really fascinating sites. And even though he is effectively a grave robber, I can’t help but love Indiana Jones. In another life, I want to come back as an archaeologist. Literally digging up our past – that’s quite an amazing thing.