As the Communications Associate at UNHCR’s Representation for Northern Europe, my main role entails digital communications for eight of the countries our office covers (Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden).
I am responsible for managing our eight country websites and social media platforms to liaise with government counterparts, partners, and the general public to include the displacement discussion in their respective agendas. Through digital engagement as well as analysing the data from them, we are able to understand how we can perform effectively, get better engagement and change and sensitize public attitudes on the refugee discourse.
In addition, I deal with organizing events and campaigns, media pitching as well as many other tasks, all in line with our Global Communications Strategy. Being the only Finnish speaking colleague in the Communications Team, I am working on a lot of the Finnish projects and with partners who operate in the field of refugee protection in Finland.
My geography studies were the basis of my career. Because of my inspiring lecturers, I was able to tackle the topics that were of interest to me while getting clear guidance and support from them throughout. I had freedom to choose my dissertation topic which I did on the 2015 ‘refugee crisis’ in Europe, and Finland in particular, which gave me an open door to apply for my quite specific Masters program on International Migration and Public Policy at the LSE. The modules offered at Queen Mary included a wide range of interesting topics so I was able to build a unique path in the field. My peers, who were from diverse backgrounds, were an amazing part of the whole experience bringing so much more knowledge and passion into the classroom.
Alongside my studies, I was also very much involved in the Students' Union, where I was an elected member for three years. I was also a Geography Ambassador at the department which gave me a chance to learn a breadth of skills, which were particularly important for my communications role!
Queen Mary is such a vibrant and cheerful institution. With the right balance of academics, activities, student activism and fun, students are able to be exactly who they want to be and make the most of their university experience. What I loved most was definitely my department and the dedicated professors we had who genuinely cared for us and wanted us to learn and succeed in our careers. I also loved the fact that students came from all over the world which gave me a global insight and understanding about their cultures. Another amazing thing was the breadth of activities that were offered by the Students Union which allowed me to pursue my interests in sports, cultural societies, as well as student politics and activism!
My years at Queen Mary have been some of the best years in my life and given me friendships of a lifetime which I still cherish very closely and dearly.
I would advice them to really make the most of their university experience. There are so many opportunities offered - don’t waste your time!
You know how we all laugh about the memes where companies want experienced employees right after graduation? Even though you might not be able to get direct work experience in the field you want to work in, there are SO many chances to develop your skills by getting involved in all the different things offered at university. When I entered the job market, I was immediately able to show my experience in organising big events, liasing with decision makers on a student board, organising protests, holding presentations among other things showcasing my skills. So do things that are relevant and plan ahead. I’m also a strong believer in pursuing what you are interested in, because if you don’t like it you’ll probably not be that great at it.
Don’t neglect the privilege to be active, these opportunities might never come back!