For International Women’s Day this year, we asked some of the brilliant women who work at Lumos globally to share their thoughts about their work, advice for women starting their careers and what they are passionate about in life. Meet Aisling, Eni and Charlotte from the UK and Belgium.
Aisling Ledwith, Advocacy and Campaigns Officer
WHY DO YOU ENJOY WORKING AT LUMOS?
I love working for Lumos because I feel really passionate about our mission to ensure every child grows up in a loving family.
My favourite thing about my role is without a doubt getting to work with children and young people around the world. We work with incredible self-advocates who are fighting for their rights and those of their peers, and it is always amazing to see them in action.
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL OTHER WOMEN WHO ARE STARTING THEIR CAREERS IN THE NOT-FOR-PROFIT SECTOR?
It’s so important to work at something you’re passionate about. There will always be stressful days at any job, but it’s much easier to face them when you know that the end result will be really worthwhile.
Don’t think about femininity as a weakness – traits which are seen as traditionally female, like kindness and cooperation, have a lot of value in the working world. Don’t worry too much about trying to change yourself!
TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF?
I studied English literature at university, and love reading female authors like Toni Morrison, Mary Oliver, and Zadie Smith.
I live in London but I grew up on the North coast of Ireland and am happiest when swimming in the sea – even in freezing temperatures!
ENI AJAYI, HR BUSINESS ADVISOR
WHY DO YOU ENJOY WORKING AT LUMOS?
People at Lumos are amazing! It’s great that we are all working towards the same mission - regardless of wherever our staff are in the world. My team are like my mini-family. They keep me going and are supportive. People at Lumos really care and respect your opinion. I feel lucky to have been given the opportunity to work with people globally. It has developed me and really built my confidence working with different and diverse people at all levels.
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL OTHER WOMEN WHO ARE STARTING THEIR CAREERS IN THE NOT-FOR-PROFIT SECTOR?
I would say be confident in your abilities. Stay focused. Believe in yourself and have the heart to offer your best at all times. Say to yourself I am good at my job and I know what I’m doing. Don’t ever feel you should change your personality to fit the mould.
TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF?
I’m currently studying for a MA in Human Resources Management which ends next year. I’m a real creative at heart and love fashion, interior design and make-up. Before lockdown I was a make-up artist for weddings and used to write a make-up blog. I love working at weddings, you get to meet new people and it makes you feel good to put a smile on a woman’s face on such a personal and exciting day for them.
Charlotte Boetticher, Senior EU advocacy and campaigns adviser
WHY DO YOU ENJOY WORKING AT LUMOS?
First of all, I find it extremely fulfilling to be able to contribute to the protection and empowerment of the world's most vulnerable children. What I also particularly like about working at Lumos is the variety of tasks and the collaboration with stakeholders at different levels. Finally, I very much enjoy the work with colleagues across teams and countries that share the same values, professional priorities and passion for the cause.
WHAT WOULD YOU TELL OTHER WOMEN WHO ARE STARTING THEIR CAREERS IN THE NOT-FOR-PROFIT SECTOR?
I would borrow the words of Steve Jobs: “The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle.”
TELL US SOMETHING ABOUT YOURSELF?
I am a proud mom of two girls and I am originally from Germany, but have also lived in France and in the French speaking part of Canada before ending up in Brussels.
I am taking part in a mentorship programme, mentoring a young student who will soon finish her studies in European law and I am passionate about photography and creativity.