Today was my final day working at The Arab British Centre and I have a lot of feelings about it. I am excited, anxious, and curious to see what is next for me. I love to find out what is out there, the next gripping project, new people, new concepts, perspectives, and the rest. But the last six months have been an entirely new experience working in communications, the arts, film, and on social media connected to what other people are doing and working in a small but fabulous team. I’m going to miss it big time!  

I was hesitant when Nadia and Becky told me that the role, I initially applied for in projects would be blended with social media and communications, but I am so glad that it was. I had not understood the scope of what was available from these online networks. I often feared social media was this false reality which can be easy to feel lost in, but my mind has been changed. We follow some amazing people, logging on to the Arab British Centre feeds every day was a carefully curated alternative perspective on ‘regular News’ reading political satire, people sharing opportunities and more generally a great online community spanning globally contributing constantly, I loved being part of it every day.  

I struggled with confidence in my skills and strengths before my time here. I encountered a lot of new tasks and concepts. There were days when things felt overwhelming, but I always felt someone would listen and take on board my needs, and because of this I got better at advocating for myself. I wasn’t sure I would be good at writing copy and making content to begin with, but being given the responsibilities pushed me and I can feel a progress in my confidence in presenting my ideas, asserting myself when I need and approaching unfamiliar things.  

I can’t forget to mention that I am incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to work on SAFAR Film Festival this year in the first year of its expansion, I believe strongly in the importance of the festival’s objectives, and I think it will keep growing in success every year. I’m incredibly proud to have played a part in this and it has really inspired me in my own passions and ambitions in continuing to work with storytelling and has opened my eyes to the opportunities being made by people like The Arab British Centre for those in the early stages of their film industry journeys.  

Finally, thank you to everyone who worked with me, to Salma my lovely, energetic, creative colleague who is always full of amazing ideas. To all the residents who made up the brilliant work environment, to Bharti for keeping the building in shape and making sure we have what we need. And of course, to Amani, Becky, and Nadia for their patience, for teaching me new things, including me wherever they can and trusting me in my role, giving me the freedom and independence to express my ideas and for setting me up with what I need to move forward. I’m not sure that all workplaces are like this so it was a privilege and an honour, and you will all be missed!  

Hashtaalakom  

Warmest wishes 

Sara