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'I’m beyond excited to follow the GSL journey and see the real-world impact that our work can have. Bring it on!'

Emily MetcalfeGlobal Social Leaders Project Manager

So, unlike the majority of people I’ve met so far, my background isn’t in coaching, social action or FF, but the dizzy world of ad agencies. ‘Mad Men’ and ‘What women want’ it is not (which was a pity), though there have been lots of fun times, boozy lunches and shoots abroad, along with the late nights, creative disputes and intensely pressured environment.

I’ve been lucky to work with some fantastic brands, created some big fun campaigns, seen my ads on TV and collaborated with lots of super-smart creative people too. I always enjoyed the buzz of developing new ideas and then making them happen.

But, after two kids in a short space of time (and a change of agencies to boot) I returned to work with the terrifying revelation that this could be ‘it’ for the next 30 years of my working life. Something didn’t feel quite right, and I knew I needed to make a change. I pursued: training courses, career coaching, meditation and made learning a focus in my life – all leading me to realise that I needed to make a big change to my career direction. Going back to learning (especially the award in education and training) reignited a passion for all things education and I just knew I had to work in a job that valued this at its core. ]

So, when I came across the role on the Escape the City’s job page (a network I’d joined to help me find my career happiness and purpose) it read like the perfect mix of my as agency experience and skill set, but importantly, for a purpose I could believe in. So here we are.

Despite the risk of sounding like a sycophant, I’ll go for it anyway, in the few days/weeks I’ve spent at FF I’ve felt more inspired to do something, make changes, and pursue my own journey of personal development than ever before. I’m humbled by the good-will, sense of purpose and kindness I’ve experienced so far, so thank you. You all embody the values of what we do and are inspiring role models; I know I can learn so much from you. In the coming months I hope the blue hoodie comes to truly fit me too.