Editor, copywriter and project manager Sarah Hawkins has over 20 years’ experience working with local, national and international charities. Here she tells us a little bit about herself:
When did you first hear about the ESU?
In 2018 I was invited by a family friend to attend an event and was moved by the words of the alumna who introduced the speaker. Her gratitude for the difference the ESU had made to her life was palpable. I then joined the Events Committee and the London Branch Committee and have also been fortunate enough to have contact with the ESU through my own sons’ involvement in school competitions and the Debate Academy.
Why did you want to become a trustee?
I was excited at the possibility of working collaboratively with the other trustees to increase national and international awareness of the ESU’s mission. I felt I might have the communication skills and experience of stakeholder engagement to do this and also to develop partnerships to support and deliver the ESU’s initiatives. As a trustee, I believed I would be able to encourage diversity and to act in the best interests of not just the charity, but also its members.
What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
I know that sun worshipping is a terrible health hazard, but nothing beats basking in the sunshine with a book, a cup of tea and a spaniel.
Whom do you admire and why?
I admire many authors for their work ethic, literary skill and imagination, but for me Maya Angelou stands out for the beauty and honesty of her exploration of how she found her voice.
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
My greatest professional achievement might yet be to come working with the board of the ESU; personally, bringing up my sons has been a joy and an honour.
Tell us something surprising about you.
I adore motorsport – participating and spectating. I know my way around an engine!
What’s the most important lesson life has taught you?
Kindness, in thought and deed, rewards the giver and the receiver in equal measure.
