Freya: Social Media Assistant At RSPB Cymru
After applying for a range of jobs, the New to Nature placement stood out to Freya, 25, for its accessibility, hybrid-working, and a chance to engage in a new sector. She was unsure about her career after university, but her role in communications at RSPB Cymru has eased the transition into work and allowed her to remain curious about potential career paths.
In between working in hospitality, Freya completed her studies in International Relations, and found the post-university transition intimidating. She was keen to leave the hospitality sector for something different; New to Nature was the perfect fit, being entry level and flexible between the office and her home in Wales. Training as a Social Media Assistant has given Freya an opportunity to learn more about herself and the type of work she would like to pursue beyond her placement.
An average day for Freya at RSPB involves checking social media channels, messages and emails, or attending meetings. She collaborates with other staff members, organises content and runs data reports. But her main communications task recently has been running a video interview series with other members to show a different side of the RSPB organisation. This idea was thought up by Freya, with the aim of sharing the videos online or at an event, as well as to be repurposed for multiple avenues within the RSPB. Leading this series has employed project management, organisation, and innovation.
Freya was surprised by how creative working in the conservation sector could be, and her innovative interview days showcase what people are passionate about, something she loves to witness! Freya’s own discovery has been the realisation she would enjoy a job centred around community engagement. This organisation-based role has been beneficial, allowing Freya the space for trying and learning, whilst supporting with her wellbeing and career.
Looking forward, Freya hopes to focus on community and sustainability, and most importantly, on exploring work she enjoys. While she is yet to figure her career journey out, Freya’s New to Nature placement has been the perfect stepping-stone to help her transition into the working environment.
Freya said:
“I don’t really know what I want to do and never have, so New to Nature is a great opportunity to learn about what it is like to work in the conservation sector in communication.
“I was surprised by how creative you can be and have to be when working in the third sector.
“I think the placement has given me the space to think and to focus about what I would like to pursue.
Employment for young people should be made more accessible, whether that is changing experience necessary for young people to be employed, giving them the time and care to learn or showcasing the wide variety of careers. Transitioning from a degree to a job is hard work and can feel incredibly daunting. I think programmes are essential for helping that transition.
New to Nature is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of the celebrations to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and the King’s Coronation, delivered through a partnership of Groundwork, The Prince’s Trust, Disability Rights UK, Mission Diverse and the Youth Environmental Service.
