WEDNESDAY 18TH MARCH 2026
Below is a question and answer session with our Administration & Communications Assistant (Breakthrough Programme) at the end of their 6 month placement at In Focus. We want to thank them for such a wonderful job well done and wish them all the best for their next steps — we absolutely loved having them as part of the team!
How did you first hear about In Focus? What was it about them that interested you, and what led you to apply for the role you’re in now?
Before working with In Focus, I was working in retail and had been looking for a new job, as where I was working wasn’t fulfilling. I found In Focus through the Artswork Breakthrough Programme. I saw creative industry roles, with different organisations displaying applications, but I found that In Focus stood out for me. Not only were the job role details and tasks standing out to me but the charity itself. It was the resounding message of inclusion, their mission, their work and the impact they have on the community. Also, being run with and providing an inclusive space for neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ in mind, really led me to apply, as I, myself, am Non-Binary.
Can you tell me a bit about the role itself – what your responsibilities are and the hours you work etc?
My role – Administration and Communications Assistant – includes a variety of tasks. I create resources for the sessions, I create social media posts, conduct different types of research (from social media trends to local charities), office admin, I have written blog posts for the website and currently working on video editing.
“I have really felt valued in the team and the work I create is making a difference.”
“Through working at In Focus, I have discovered that a positive, creative and open-minded workplace does exist.”
Of these responsibilities and tasks, which are your favourites?
I think my favourite task has been making resources and social media posts. It’s having that creative freedom to make these creations that will not only help sessions or be posted but creating things that still fit the In Focus voice.
Which elements have been the most challenging for you?
I think the thing that has been the most challenging has been adjusting to an office environment from a retail background. From running around in a retail environment to an office environment is quite a big shift in atmosphere, in a positive way! And going from a job that wasn’t fulfilling to one that is, makes a real difference.
How do you feel about the support and guidance you’ve received since becoming a part of the team?
Through being at In Focus, I have discovered that a positive, creative and open-minded workplace does exist. From the first day, I have been welcomed and supported through the journey of my placement. Everyone has been so supportive, understanding and accommodating. I have really felt valued in the team and the work I create is making a difference, whether it’s to support workshops or just the general tasks to help the team.
“I saw creative industry roles advertised with various organisations, but I found that In Focus stood out for me. It was the resounding message of inclusion, their mission, their work and the impact they have on the community.”
Is there anything you’d like the chance to work on in your job that you haven’t yet?
I would really like to see the work that goes into creating an exhibition, the whole process from beginning to end.
Has working here inspired you to do or try out more creative activities for yourself?
I have always been a creative person; I craft and research different art forms in my free time and working at In Focus has been so creatively inspiring. Especially for learning and trying out different art forms, for example Zines! I had made resources to help the sessions on how to fold a zine and explaining what a zine is. And after seeing other people’s art and creations, I felt so inspired to make a few myself to fully experiment and use this art form as a creative outlet!
What advice would you give to other young people considering working here or at similar arts charity organisations/in similar roles to yours?
My advice for people that are considering working in the arts, charities or organisations, is to be your true creative self. Your voice will be heard, listened to and included. Ask any questions you have about the role and organisation or the process of a task, if you are curious or not sure. I would also say keep a record of the creations you have made or been a part of for your portfolio. Keeping a record of examples, not just for future opportunities, but for your own reflection of what you have created and reflecting on how your skills have progressed.