Tag: Alumni Network

Local Councils to National Policy: Reflections from Abdul Hai OBE’s Masterclass on Community-Centric Governance

Hugh has worked in a number of inner-city London schools, and for the last three years as a secondary school History teacher. He volunteers as an Ambassador In Policy for the charity Teach First, and most recently, has completed his MA in Education, Policy and Society from King’s College London. Hugh is involved in public policy research, is a member of the Young Fabians, and has a strong academic interest in the politics of the populist radical right, democratic backsliding, and constitutional reform.

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Every Patchwork Masterclass offers a unique insight into a specific aspect of British political life, and the session with Abdul Hai OBE was no different focusing on the unique and vital roles that local councils play in the lives of citizens.  

During my undergraduate studies, I worked for Exeter City Council and was exposed to the central role that councils play as community hubs and local service providers. After returning to London to teach in inner-city schools and through my broader activism, I noticed that many London communities and young people can often feel disconnected from their political representatives, in local and central government, despite being geographically close to these institutions. In this light, Mr. Hai’s Masterclass was particularly illuminating, as it reiterated the important yet sometimes overlooked role that councils play in fostering a sense of belonging, connecting individuals and communities to their local areas.  

Mr Hai’s commitment to community service is illustrated through his advocacy for the London Borough of Camden, serving sixteen years as a councillor from 2006 to 2022, including a decade as a cabinet member. His commitment to youth services and local communities earned him an OBE in 2022. With over twenty-four years in the Labour Party, Abdul continues to advocate for his community and progressive politics as Vice Chair of SME4Labour, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises across the UK; and as Director of Community Relations and Public Affairs at LabTech.

From the discussions and conversations from the Masterclass, I will outline key learnings and insights that personally resonated with me:  

Firstly, the Masterclass underscored that political challenges should not always be about directly confronting your adversaries. Instead, coalition building can be effective in achieving political goals. It was insightful to consider how opposition, whether from within the council or the local community, can often aid policymakers to refine, modify and improve decisions that ultimately result in better policy implementation. 

Mr Hai emphasised that leadership requires you to be the change you want to see, highlighting the necessity of personal initiative, and throwing yourself into the public realm to ensure that your values are represented. This affirms Patchwork’s #GetInvolved initiative which focuses on getting young people more involved with grassroot politics. This led to a discussion about the importance of integrity in leadership. Mr. Hai stressed that integrity fosters confidence in leaders and ensures accountability by ensuring their actions align with their values, going beyond mere words and rhetoric. 

Mr Hai noted that local council politics is a useful breeding ground for learning to gain hands-on experience, before making the jump to national politics. Rather than viewing politics as a restricted club, local council involvement can provide people with a more accessible entry route to public life. In this sense, fostering an opportunity for inclusion rather than exclusion. Secondly, as a breeding ground for learning local councils like Camden have played important roles in developing policy innovations that are then scaled to the national level in the form of policy borrowing. For example, Camden Council’s corporate plan locally has arguably played a key role in inspiring the Labour government’s National Wealth Fund, a £7.3 billion initiative launched on 9th July 2024, to boost growth and unlock investment nationally. Also from a more holistic perspective, Camden Council’s goal setting approach to local governance mirrors the Labour government’s “mission-driven” approach from Whitehall. These two examples demonstrating how local initiatives, once proven effective, can be adapted and then implemented at the national level.

Lastly, I would like to end reflecting on a conception of what success meant to Mr Hai as a public servant which I found both novel and inspiring. For him, success should be measured not just by personal achievements but by your altruistic contributions—”not by what you achieve, but by what you give”, and that while public service often involves setbacks, these can often offer opportunities for reflection and growth. 

In this spirit, I look forward to implementing the reflections and insights gained from the Masterclass into my personal and professional life in politics and I hope my other Patchwork colleagues found the Masterclass as motivating as I did.

Breaking News and Breaking Barriers: Masterclass at NewsUK

Weronika works in the Department of Health and Social Care where she supports on Parliamentary business. She completed her undergraduate degree in Geography at the University of Edinburgh in 2023. Following her completion of the Summer Diversity Internship Programme in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in 2023, she developed an interest in politics and wanted to work on issues that affect people. Weronika is particularly interested in issues relating to social inequality after she volunteered in a mentoring programme at university aiming to demystify higher education for widening participation students.

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In this Masterclass, Noa Hoffman shared her experiences and challenges working as a Political Correspondent. As a young female journalist working in a high-stress role, Ms Hoffman shared valuable advice for young graduates wanting to break into journalism and how to manage well-being. A personal highlight was gaining an insight into the behind-the-scenes efforts involved in crafting the political articles I, and many others read.

Before the Masterclass, the ‘Mini-Ministers’ cohort also received a tour of the NewsUK offices. We visited the Sun, the Times, and talkSPORT headquarters.

Career Journey 

Myself and the cohort found it surprising how we could relate to some aspects of Ms Hoffman’s career journey. She emphasised the variety of roles, internships, and extra-curricular activities she was involved in before her current position. Breaking into the industry can be challenging and Ms Hoffman stressed the importance of ‘bulking up’ your CV and showing evidence of your passion. Working in smaller publications and student newspapers tailored her interests and gave her the experience needed to get to her position today.

Career Challenges

Ms Hoffman was very open and candid, sharing her unique experiences working as a political correspondent and the personal lessons she’s learnt over the years. Working in a busy and high-stress role, we touched upon how it can sometimes be difficult to switch off and balance your personal life. Your day can start as early as 7 am watching the morning news round, and finish at 10 pm (or later) if it is particularly busy. It’s also important to note that it can be difficult as a young woman reporting in Westminster. Acting confident and self-assured, even if you don’t feel it, is crucial for commanding a space.

Although her role can be challenging, Ms Hoffman stresses that her work keeps her motivated. She feels strongly about sharing the news and holding people to account. When asked how she manages her well-being, Ms Hoffman highlighted the importance of knowing yourself and understanding when you need a break. She also stressed the importance of speaking with your colleagues and talking about your frustrations. These were particularly valuable insights for the cohort to take away and apply to our personal lives.

Future of journalism

We also had thought-provoking conversations about the current state and future of journalism. When asked how the role of journalists has changed in recent general elections, especially this year, Ms Hoffman shared some interesting insights. She emphasised that dynamics are changing as politicians are aware that at any moment they can be recorded. Furthermore, digital media is exploding. This has meant journalists are expected to be flexible and report in different formats. For example, writing articles but also hosting podcasts and utilising social media to share information. 

Conclusions

Overall, this was a valuable Masterclass. It was refreshing and motivating to hear from someone who has achieved so much but, like many of our cohort, is still early in their career journey. Through her candid advice, it was clear throughout Ms Hoffman felt strongly about empowering and pushing young people. Particularly after a general election, it was insightful to learn about the effort and processes that go into publishing news articles, leaving all who attended this Masterclass much to reflect on.

Behind the Scenes of Policy Creation: Masterclass with Senior Civil Servant Tamara Finkelstein CB

Kashaf studies Politics, Philosophy, and Law at King’s College London. Having worked with children and young people and volunteering for her local community, she is greatly passionate about developing her political awareness to further the interests of disadvantaged communities and use her platform to raise awareness. Her political area of interest is devolution, the importance of regional parties, and their wider impact on Westminster.

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Whilst we tend to focus on individual politicians as the face of policy, we often forget the team and the people behind them supporting this process. Tamara Finkelstein CB, the Permanent Secretary for DEFRA, was a reminder of the important work and research done throughout policy creation and the distinctive role the Civil Service plays in supporting politicians. As Ms Finkelstein stated herself, the government sets the outcome, and the Civil Service helps to advise and achieve it. 

Ms Finkelstein is an emulation of what it means to be a Senior Civil Servant, upholding the Civil Service Code of impartiality, and whilst remaining apolitical, it didn’t stop us from understanding who Ms Finkelstein was and what she stood for through learning about career journey and various roles. Her journey is an experienced one, working with various political parties and across different departments, a reflection of her academics with her role in the treasury after completing a Master’s in Economics and a reflection of her interests and concerns with her role as Lead of the Building Safety Program after the Grenfell tragedy and her now current role as Permanent Secretary of DEFRA. 

A key takeaway from Ms Finkelstein’s Masterclass was the idea of continual learning and development done through experience and and confidence building, sharing her own journey from notable work in the treasury. She stated learning more about her role after leaving and working outside the department, that outward lens and shift in perspective highlighted her openness to change and seeking out new ways to work with and for others.

The discussion touched upon how the Civil Service is a large workplace, and it can feel like you have no agency, which is something we can either relate to, or a worry we have when entering a new workplace. However, alongside this, Ms Finkelstein shared some supportive and relevant advice. Stating the need of making sure to ask for help and continuing to learn from our experiences, and whilst she is now in a senior position by being a Permanent Secretary, her journey till now was one that required her to work with others and as such emphasised in always asking for help from those around us. More importantly, she affirmed the importance of confidence where, in order to do well and thrive we should be confident in ourselves and our decisions, and whilst when we are given feedback it is easy to dwell and focus on the criticism, when instead we should focus on and see the positives too. These are ways we can build our endurance and something we all need a reminder of when we get caught up in our pursuits and goals.

Our cohort’s Masterclass ended with a lovely dinner which Ms Finkelstein joined. Throughout the dinner we engaged in some light discussions as a cohort on topics like what policies we’d introduce, a chance to understand the concerns and insight of our fellow peers and also finding common ground on concern over education and opportunity for young people. This dinner was enjoyable, and a chance to share our individual experience and know more about the diverse range of background we all come from to make up such a lovely cohort. 

On behalf of our cohort, I would like to express our gratitude to Ms Finkelstein for taking out time from her busy schedule to attend our Masterclass and share her experiences and inspire us all with her honest advice. 

Masterclass with Robert Colvile: Demystifying the Role of Think Tanks, and Being a Masterclass Chair. 

Connor is a Civil Service Fast Streamer currently posted as a Senior Programme Support Officer at the National Crime Agency (NCA). Connor joined the Fast Stream in October 2023 and prior to that worked in operational delivery at the Ministry of Justice, and also has experience from working at Yorkshire Water in public affairs, communications and stakeholder engagement. Connor graduated from the London School of Economics in 2021 with a BSc in Politics and Philosophy.

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Think Tanks are often a mysterious entity in the political world. Most people with an interest in politics have probably heard of Think Tanks and their role in shaping policies and influencing politicians. Most of us have also probably asked ourselves ‘but what do Think Tanks actually do?’ – these organisations are often shrouded in mysticism. The Mini-Ministers cohort recently had the privilege of a Masterclass with Robert Colvile – Director of the Centre for Policy Studies (CPS) Think Tank, where he covered the role of Think Tanks and his own career journey to become the leading figure in the CPS. I had the opportunity to chair this Masterclass, and I shall use this blog to also cover the fundamentals of being a Masterclass Chair, and the preparation work that I did ahead of my Chair role. 

The Masterclass began by Mr Colvile explaining to us that his career journey began in journalism, where he worked for a variety of publications that crossed the political spectrum – he worked for The Telegraph for several years, renowned for its right-wing inclination and support of the Conservative Party; but also led the 2015 General Election coverage for Buzzfeed UK, a left leaning outlet. Mr Colvile noted that the skills of being a journalist and working in policy in a Think Tank were largely the same: he saw a natural progression from his journalistic roles to his current position at the CPS. Indeed, Mr Colvile continues to be Editor-In-Chief of CapX – an online publication created by the CPS to cover current affairs and politics stories, which again shows the strong overlap in skills between journalism and working in a Think Tank. 

The discussion then outlined that many of the people who choose to work in Think Tanks do so out of passion – the pay in this area is relatively low and many of those who work in Think Tanks could make a great deal more money elsewhere. They are instead motivated by a desire to influence change and passion to improve things in the country – Mr Colvile noted this is true across the political spectrum in both left and right leaning Think Tanks. 

In terms of chairing the Masterclass, I did extensive research on Mr Colvile and his background. Research is important for any Masterclass but especially in the position of Chair. I also practiced my introduction and closing statements before the Masterclass – not just for memorising the content but also the delivery. It is important to be inclusive of everyone at the Masterclass and address the room as a whole when speaking, not just the main speaker. As the chair, it is vital to make sure any online attendees feel included and engaged in the session. It is always difficult in hybrid environments when we are in the position of being online – and the Chair can play a crucial role in closing that gap and making the experience of online and in-person attendees close to equal. Another key part of being a Masterclass Chair is being able to adapt and change the format to fit the speaker. Particularly in the prepared questions, for example, some speakers may prefer to take questions one by one rather than in groups of three. Some speakers may shorten their main speech to allow more time for open Q&A at the end. These should be facilitated by the Chair as best as possible, while also balancing out the consideration of time and running according to the agenda. 

I took a lot away from our Masterclass with Robert Colvile as he showed us a unique and novel route into politics that was quite different from our previous Masterclass speakers. He demystified the role of Think Tanks well and explained the purpose and composition of these organisations, as well as the key skills and attributes needed to thrive at a Think Tank. I also thoroughly enjoyed being Chair, and I hope that my insights and tips into chairing are useful to other Patchworkers. I would encourage anyone interested to volunteer for chairing a Masterclass as it is a very rewarding experience, it allows you 1-1 time with the speaker to build closer connections, and in general it is a useful skill for a future career in a political role.

Mastering the Art of Negotiation and Networking: A Mid-Year Review

Talhah studied Clinical Bioscience at University, learning about the intrinsic link between the political framework and the provision of care. Driven by a firm commitment to community service, he has immersed himself in the third sector from an early age. He has spearheaded multiple charity campaigns, most notably, the distribution of care packages to the homeless. His active engagement with various mental health organisations has led him to work tirelessly to dismantle stigmas, particularly within British South Asian communities. With a keen interest in health, social and educational policies, Talhah focuses particularly on the provision of equitable opportunities for all.

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As we approached the halfway point of our Patchwork journey, we were invited to a Mid-Year Review hosted by Hogan Lovells.

Introduction

The day began with all the participants of this year’s programme reflecting on their experiences thus far. This exercise allowed us to engage with members from different cohorts, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. One participant mentioned how chairing a masterclass significantly boosted their confidence in public speaking while another emphasised the importance of the networking sessions in providing valuable connections. 

Hearing diverse viewpoints broadened my perspective, revealing different ways to approach the second half of the programme. I came to the realisation that I needed to put myself out there and get more involved with events, whether through Patchwork or externally.

Following this, we participated in two skills sessions led by the team at Hogan Lovells, further enhancing our journey with their expertise and industry insights.

1: Negotiation skills session

I’ve always been curious about the inner workings of a serious business negotiation. This skills session provided a glimpse into the daily operations of a business lawyer. Although the exercise was predominantly law-based, the skills we acquired were highly transferable. 

We dove straight into a negotiation exercise, splitting into teams to present our cases. One team assumed the role of a TV production company pitching their new show to an international broadcaster, represented by the other team. We had to negotiate and reach a consensus on various arrangements, including budgeting, airtime schedules, and adherence to health and safety regulations. After twenty-five minutes of spirited debate, we regrouped and discussed our points of agreement and contention. Among the group, this exercise was definitely the highlight of the day.

I found this skills session fascinating as it dawned on me how I could transfer the skills learned into my personal and professional life. I realised the power of persuasion when it comes to negotiation which would aid me in advocating for causes that I believe in. As well as this, the importance of meticulous preparation was reiterated. This will enable me to anticipate and manage risks, ultimately making my career development smoother.

2: Networking skills session

When I used to hear the term “networking”, I often envisioned just having conversations with new people. After attending this skills session, I realised I was blissfully unaware of what effective networking truly entailed.

We were introduced to the three main types of networking: personal, operational and strategic. Alongside this, we delved into the intricate psychological techniques to have engaging conversations. The importance of “working the room” and “active listening” was stressed to us in order to leave a meaningful impression.

Splitting into small groups, we practiced crafting compelling introductions for approaching new contacts. This exercise underscored the importance of making a strong first impression. We also discussed the significance of following up on conversations quickly, whether that was through organising a coffee catch-up or sending a distinctive message on LinkedIn. Finally, we shared potential business card designs that we could create for our own personal brand.

Since attending this skills session, I have attended additional networking events. I have found myself to be more confident and self-aware. At work, this confidence has translated into forming even stronger connections with clients. I am more proactive in initiating conversations which has not only helped in building a more robust network but has also enhanced my satisfaction in my role. 

Conclusions

The evening concluded with an engaging networking session, providing the perfect opportunity for everyone to put into practice the techniques we had just learned. As the sun shone and the canapés arrived, many meaningful connections were made.

On behalf of everyone at the Patchwork Foundation, I would like to extend our thanks to Hogan Lovells for organising this event. It was a thoroughly enjoyable day that provided us with essential insights which will significantly contribute to our personal and professional development.

A Call to Public Service: A Masterclass with Sir Matthew Rycroft KCMG CBE

Saifur is a graduate of International Relations from the University of Leeds. His undergraduate dissertation focused on the constitutional impact of greater devolution in the UK, analysing developments from across Europe and North America, then outlining potential scenarios for the UK from increased devolution within England. During his time at Leeds, he volunteered with the Leeds Art Gallery and spent a year as Brand Ambassador for a social mobility charity. He enjoys exercising, reading and watching football.

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Making a difference to people’s lives is one of the most noble aims you can ever commit yourself to. It can be unforgiving, it can be difficult, but it can be fulfilling and rewarding when reflecting on the countless lives that have changed for the better as a result of your work.

Sir Matthew Rycroft KCMG CBE rightly pointed out that there are many ways in which you can serve the country, its people, and communities, to prosper, to live safer and healthier lives and to promote British values at home and abroad. What I appreciated was that he encouraged us in attendance to think deeply about what energises us, what motivates us, our aims and where you can see yourself develop and grow in your professional journey, whatever and wherever it may be.

I took that on board. When you want to think about your next steps, you really need to picture what excites you, what drives you to keep going when times are tough and what will help you grow personally and professionally? These are questions I will reflect on.

What I admired from the speaker was how he emphasised humility in recognising the boundaries of his position and the importance of professionalism and impartiality. What helps the speaker is keeping in mind that, he was not elected. He understands his personal views are irrelevant to his role, and that a real strength of his position is impartiality and being trusted to faithfully execute and implement the priorities of the government of the day, regardless of their party affiliation. You leave your politics at the door and that is important for effective administration. In fact, what I admire about British democracy is how seamless and uncontroversial the transition of power is (as you may have noticed with the recent British general election this month). That seamless transition is partly due to the preparatory work made by those impartial officials.

Sir Matthew honed in on the importance of fostering an environment that prioritises lifelong learning, inclusion, wellbeing and speaking out (when things go wrong). I got the impression that this was particularly important in maximising high performance, safety and retaining people. When discussing leadership, the speaker was incredibly proud to have been driving forward these changes, to better empower colleagues to feel safe and to feel supported – so nobody should have to suffer, unable to turn to anyone who could support them.

The speaker was incredibly passionate about the wide-ranging opportunities available, for those who care about public service or alternate routes to serve the public interest. At this moment in history, we are facing many challenges at home and abroad. What comes to mind are: an ageing population, health, crime, climate, international security and so much more. The speaker was keen to stress that if you care deeply about these issues, then you should apply! 

If you want to work in government, politics, or other related roles, it is important to throw your hat in the ring, make that initial move and apply for the position. If you do not apply, you will certainly miss a potentially rewarding career. Think about the impact you can make.

Serving your country, the public and making a difference to the lives of many is the opportunity that many aspire to. The professionalism, hard work, and dedication of those working to deliver the people’s priorities is something that I commend wholeheartedly. Sir Matthew Rycroft invited us to explore a potential career not just in the civil service, but in areas where you can contribute to influencing policy, such as academia, non-governmental organisations, and charities to name a few. Think about what excites you, what your goals are and where you can grow into the best version of yourself. Sir Matthews’s incredible career is a testament to how public service places you at the forefront in tackling the many important challenges we face in society today. It was a call to public service!

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Tom is in his final year at Newcastle University, studying International Relations and undertaking a dissertation about the Geopolitics of the Arctic Region. After completing his university degree and gaining relevant skills and experience through programmes like Patchwork, Tom aspires to start a career in diplomatic service or other public or private sector jobs relating to politics. Outside of his studies and career development, Tom enjoys going to the gym and travelling to ensure good physical and mental well-being.

Our Patchwork cohort had the honour of attending a Masterclass with Sir Matthew Rycroft KCMG CBE last month. We were all thrilled to have an opportunity to engage with someone of Sir Matthews’s expertise, and as expected, his Masterclass did not disappoint. Sir Matthew Rycroft has had an extinguished career in politics, one which many of us Patchworkers are aspiring towards. Sir Matthews’s extensive career includes roles in the Civil Service, politics and diplomacy. Most notably, as the Private Secretary to Tony Blair and the Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the UN. Currently, he is the Permanent Under-Secretary at the Home Office. 

To begin the Masterclass, Sir Matthew enlightened us on how the Home Office plays a vital role in managing the police, migration and state threats/terrorism. Secondly, due to Sir Matthews’s fruitful experiences as a Permanent Under-Secretary, we received deep insight into what the role entails and its responsibilities, including overseeing the budget, ensuring a high quality of staff welfare and maintaining a positive culture within the Home Office. 

To our delight, Sir Matthew was keen to answer the many questions that we had for him. While we could have asked him questions all night, we limited our questions to three main topics: the Home Office and Civil Service, his international career and personal development. When answering our questions, he highlighted how to manage one’s authority and use it for the greater good. In my future career, I will aspire to honour Sir Matthews’s advice and use my authority to ensure all my colleagues know they have an essential voice that deserves to be listened to. 

Upon reflection, my favourite moment in the Masterclass was when Sir Matthew shared a personal story from his diplomacy career. This story was particularly touching as it opened my eyes to the power of light-hearted interpersonal moments in diplomacy, which can be used as a vehicle to drive concrete improvements in international relations. Above all, Sir Matthew topped off his Masterclass by highlighting how he strives to use his privilege to encourage social mobility for people of underrepresented backgrounds. This message at the end of the Masterclass perpetuates the values that stand at the forefront of Patchwork Foundation’s work.

From everyone at the Patchwork Foundation and my cohort, I would like to thank Sir Matthew for taking the time to share his knowledge and wisdom with all of us, and I can assure him that each of us learnt something from the Masterclass that will help us throughout our professional journeys in the future.

Politics for Change: Reflections on Zack Polanski AM’s Masterclass

Emily is an undergraduate student at the University of Nottingham studying Liberal Arts BA with a Major in Politics. Alongside her studies, she is an incoming summer 2024 intern at Kekst CNC, a Student Ambassador for It’s a Penalty – an anti-modern slavery charity, works as a Communications Officer for the international student think tank – STEAR and is the President of the University of Nottingham politics society. Emily found out about Patchwork through completing their political internship last summer and is aspiring to go into political consultancy and communications. Emily is passionate about politics because she sees it as a means to help people and make a difference, particularly regarding issues that face women. She hopes that the programme will give her the skills to effectively contribute to society.

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‘I am so excited to be here’—the words of the very busy Deputy Party Leader of the Greens, and London Assembly member. Despite having a packed calendar, as expected of any political professional during the pre-general election period, Mr Polanski assured us of his delight at sitting down with us on the eve of his party’s manifesto launch. Sitting just outside ‘London’s living room’, I think it is fair to say we all felt immediately welcomed into what would become a fruitful discussion about his personal journey into politics, how his personal experiences have affected him and the Green Party.

Inevitably, this Masterclass was timely coming up to the General Election. Particularly as a group of young voters, for many it is their first time in the voting booth and are feeling conflicted over what to tick at the ballot box. Mr Polanski’s Masterclass provided a much-needed discussion on the role of third parties in the British political system.

The discussion began with Mr Polanski’s journey into politics, which is a far cry from the stereotypical route many politicians take. From growing up in Salford, shedding light on his experience as a member of the Jewish and LGBTQ+ communities, to being educated in Wales and the United States. Mr Polanski found himself with a creative background in immersive theatre, where he was indifferent to political conversation. Naturally, it is curious to anyone how Mr Polanski became Deputy Leader of the Green Party, and a member of the London Assembly. If anything was clear, the influence of his background is what made Mr Polanski’s approach to politics unique and above all, refreshing.

Mr Polanski spoke on topics regarding the Green Party, grassroots politics and his personal professional development within politics. All of which, painted a picture of a politics that is not as dominant in mainstream media, but, Mr Polanski’s words covered issues that underscore every voter’s daily life. Equally, Zack Polanski highlighted a valuable lesson from his own personal journey, citing when he chose to move from the Liberal Democrats to the Green Party. He emphasised the importance of being authentic, sticking by principles and acknowledging that we should embrace that politics and opinions evolve inevitably as part of personal lived experiences. It is important to open ourselves up to diverse opportunities, encouraging the broadening of discourse and acknowledge that issues in public arena change in urgency. Embracing change and connecting with others were key takeaways from this message.

This was thematically tied up with the role of smaller parties in our political system. There is no doubt that anyone politically in tune is aware of the rise of the Greens, but also other smaller parties in our political system, at all levels of our democracy. Mr Polanski stressed how this change in the political landscape reinforces how we have the ability, within our democracy, to broaden the discourse and diversify politics. It is key to seize opportunities to make change. Whether this is at the ballot box, joining a political party or working with a pressure group or charity; Mr Polanski’s words inspired our cohort over the power our voice can have in our political system if we seize these opportunities. 

Zack Polanski’s Masterclass provided an enlivening perspective on politics. It left us all feeling optimistic. Empowered.  It reminded us of the true power our voices can have in our political system. It is easy to get caught up with the big issues and the big parties, as only expected from the echo chambers that fill our social media feeds and headline the news. Yet, Zack Polanski’s Masterclass prompted us to remember that politics is about us, and our future. Reinforcing how we have the power to make tomorrow better for every individual. These wise words from Mr Polanski can be partly attributed to his colourful and social background but is true to say his advice was grounding. Politics is about understanding the power of your voice and using it to make change. Echoing many of the core values here at the Patchwork Foundation.

Fostering Inclusion and Navigating a Career: My Masterclass with Dr Hannah White

Martha is pursuing a BA in Politics and Sociology at the University of Sheffield and has a particular interest in social policy after engaging in campaigns surrounding period poverty and climate justice prior to her undergraduate study and running a political education project for KS2 students whilst in her second year at Sheffield. Recently volunteering in the office of a Labour MP, and going on to complete an internship with the Department for Work and Pensions in the coming weeks, Martha hopes the Patchwork Masterclass Programme will allow her to deepen her understanding of public affairs and political life in a variety of sectors and learn from the inspirational and engaging figures with whom she will have Masterclasses with.

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Our session with Dr Hannah White occurred mere hours in light of the announcement of the General Election so my cohort and I were extremely keen to hear about her experiences; she provided great insight for us as young people discussing: how all our varied opportunities can interact and shape our knowledge and how she seeks to enhance a positive environment within the Institute for Government.

Following my own research and the session itself, I discovered Dr White first pursued academia, completing a PhD in Geography, and then began her political career as a clerk in the House of Commons spending a decade here with the Public Bill Office and Standards in Public Life Committee before making a career change and stepping into research and analysis on the very systems and institutions she is so knowledgeable of with the Institute for Government. Additionally, she has written a book carved from her extensive experience in the realms of Westminster, titled ‘Held in Contempt: What’s Wrong With the House of Commons’. 

Dr White spoke at length about her exciting career but emphasised the challenges she has faced along the way, and outlined how normal it is not to know the exact route you want to take in your career but always to remain open to new opportunities. It was also stressed that in politics, or otherwise any job, volunteering, study or life experience connects to shape us and develop our skill sets as we accumulate experience and grow as individuals and potential employees. This spoke to me because as a student I am unsure what avenue of work to embark on upon graduation and when it feels like many of my peers already have a plan established for themselves, this can be hard to approach. It was a refreshing perspective to hear and welcomed by all, and I came away feeling inspired.

Another key part of our discussions focussed on inclusivity in politics and workplace culture. Dr White began by highlighting some of the issues she has observed and dealt with. We then discussed how it is important to remain conscious of the often overlooked issues such as mental health, amidst the often high-pressure environment to look after and positively shape the values of those working around us. With the Institute for Government acting as a leading independent think tank working to keep the government effective, I was reassured that Dr White, as the Director, was committed to inclusion and eliminating harmful power dynamics within her own realm before advocating for the same attitudes from our elected officials, which is something that so many of us are concerned about when entering into the political sphere, particularly for minorities and individuals usually underrepresented in parliament and public office.

This Masterclass was particularly inspirational and provided great reassurance and guidance for my future career. During our discussions, we delved into the strength of a proactive attitude and the importance of clear self-expression of well-thought-out ideas – this can get you very far in an interview and a job and propel you to success. These principles are ones I have found to be of great importance and have been mirrored in the reflections I have had from other Masterclasses and personal experiences during applications. Once one has successfully made a positive and lasting first impression by highlighting your own skills and unique personality, this can take you far.

Dr Hannah White’s Masterclass was an enriching experience providing lots to think about, and I was grateful to attend. As I complete my studies and make my way within politics, I am certain this session will leave a lasting stamp on my attitude and outlook, as I appreciate that my time spent working in a supermarket or completing a module at university that I found challenging, ultimately have worked to form a well-rounded and mindful individual ready to become the changemaker I hope to be.

My Journey in Policy: Reflections from Andrew Harrop’s Masterclass

Hani is a dedicated Bid Writer for a charity addressing biases and discrimination in the private and public sectors. Currently pursuing a master’s in Development Studies and Arabic with a focus on climate policy, Hani aspires to apply insights from the Masterclass Programme to influence sustainable development policies. Passionate about community engagement, Hani envisions creating a diverse professional network to foster a socially just and environmentally conscious future. With a commitment to integrating lessons learned into practical initiatives, Hani seeks to contribute meaningfully to a world where inclusivity and environmental sustainability are at the forefront of policymaking.

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Attending Andrew Harrop’s Masterclass was a transformative experience that provided invaluable insights on topics such as landing your first entry job, developing your skill set, and identifying policy gaps to address our society’s concerns. Mr Harrop, who has been the General Secretary of the Fabian Society since Autumn 2011, has an extensive background in economic and social policy, and his journey closely mirrors my own aspirations. 

Mr Harrop’s unique career path is particularly inspiring to me, having both started our journeys working in Parliament as students. His progression from a researcher at a think tank to his roles at Age Concern England and Age UK, culminating in his leadership at the Fabian Society, exemplifies a dedicated trajectory of influence in policy-making. As a student of Anthropology focusing on migration studies and climate policy, a key takeaway was the emphasis on evidence-based policymaking. With aspirations to become a policy advisor, utilising evidence to support research and recommendations, is crucial in creating effective and sustainable policies. This approach is reflected in the Fabian Society’s commitment to spotlighting key socioeconomic issues and examining the Labour Party’s policies in the run-up to the general election in July. The Fabian Society understands that we need more inclusive policies that are mindful of social issues to adapt to the changing world around us. Mr Harrop’s focus on inclusive policies resonates deeply with my passion for advocacy and migration studies as I want to utilise policy-making to cultivate sustainable solutions to some of the largest concerns facing Britain. 

Another key lesson from Mr Harrop’s Masterclass was the importance of being open-minded to opportunities, particularly within the non-profit sector. Mr Harrop emphasized that opportunities often resemble hidden gems and may be closer than we realise. This perspective is especially useful for those of us just starting out in our careers. It encourages us to remain vigilant and open to various paths that might not initially seem obvious. For instance, Mr Harrop’s career path included a variety of roles in the charity sector, where he honed his policy and research skills. This advice resonates with my experiences and aspirations, reminding me that valuable opportunities for growth and impact can be found in unexpected places. Once we seize these opportunities, it is crucial to continually nurture fundamental skills such as analysis, critical thinking, and adaptability, which are essential for sustained progress and success in the ever-evolving field of policy-making. 

The Masterclass was exceptionally beneficial, providing both inspiration and practical guidance for my career. Mr Harrop’s journey from a part-time parliamentary worker to a leading figure in policy research and advocacy underlines the importance of dedication, skill development, and a commitment to evidence-based policymaking. Drawing on facts and evidence to support my research from an environmental and anthropological perspective has made me think a lot about my experiences studying migration from a policy perspective and how I can expand my expertise to shape migration policies and challenge attitudes towards migration and its negative connotations. 

As I move forward in my career, I am inspired to develop policies that are inclusive to all and mindful of the world around us. And much like the Patchwork Foundation, I will strive to contribute to a positive change in the political landscape.

The Power of Positivity: A Masterclass with Dr Mark Pack

Eliza (she/her) is a third-year Geopolitics student at the University of Edinburgh. She grew up in Glasgow, where she volunteered at her local foodbank and supported various charities such as Birth, Baby and Beyond and Cash for Kids. She is currently an ambassador for Give Blood 4 Good and the Wellbeing and Inclusion Officer for the Edinburgh University Swimming and Water Polo Club. She is deeply interested in matters surrounding reproductive health, mental well-being, and international development. Eliza joined the Patchwork Masterclass Programme to grow her network, acquire a deeper understanding of public affairs, and develop the skills that will enable her to make a real impact within politics and the third sector.

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Recently, it seems as though scandal has come to define politics. Yet, as Dr Mark Pack shared his experiences with us it was clear that British politics is in fact a space for meaningful action and positive change. While describing how he found his way within the political realm and offering guidance for those of us embarking on a similar journey, Dr Pack’s Masterclass was marked with an inherent sense of optimism which left me feeling energised.

The challenges that Dr Pack faced while trying to enter politics were incredibly relatable. Our discussion began with noting that individuals with an Oxbridge education benefit from a ready-made network of political contacts. Without this background, Dr Pack had to find another way to get on to the political ladder, building his own connections through leafletting and office admin jobs at Lib Dem HQ. Given his current success as a writer, podcaster, guest lecturer, and President of the Liberal Democrats, it is evident that engaging in volunteering can lead to extraordinary opportunities within politics. I joined the Patchwork programme due to a similar lack of connections and uncertainty about how to pursue a political career. As a result of Dr Pack’s Masterclass, I now feel confident that I can gain vital experience at a grassroots level, cultivate my own network, and truly excel. Hearing about his journey was encouraging and refreshing, demonstrating that there is more than one route into politics and that a rich network can be crafted from scratch with the right amount of effort and passion.

Beyond the process of entering politics, Dr Pack provided us with valuable advice for when we are fully immersed in it. What stood out to me was the emphasis he placed on kindness, positivity, and embracing what makes you different. Throughout his presidency campaign, Dr Pack refrained from insulting his opponents and rather highlighted his personal strengths such as his non-parliamentarian status. His commitment to building and sustaining good relationships is inspiring, and I believe politics needs more of this respect and professionalism. For Dr Pack, there is so much value in being a nice person and he urged us to hold on to kind habits even in the whirlwind world of politics – a thank you card or a letter of condolence can go a long way. He also encouraged us to recognise our small achievements. Though politics often involves chasing ambitious and intimidating targets, small wins along the way are just as important. Local-level initiatives such as the installation of a wheelchair ramp hold significant meaning and impact. As I am about to take on my first job in politics doing casework this summer, it was exciting to hear how rewarding it is to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Dr Pack’s Masterclass was highly motivating. Towards the end of the session our final discussion point really left an impression on me, which focused on how politics still plays out whether you choose to get involved or not. Following each general election, 650 members will be elected to the House of Commons no matter what. The important question is, do you want good people to be at the heart of it all? This confirmed just how much I want to participate in British politics and fight for the causes that matter to me. As the session came to a close, Dr Pack looked around the room and told us that he feels our future is in safe hands. His Masterclass left us all smiling and I now feel ready to enter the political arena with optimism, to affect change both great and small.

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Maliha is a student of Politics and International Relations with a deep passion for politics and societal issues. She is the host of a podcast and blog, where she shares her insights and analysis on current political affairs. With her strong academic background and dedication to exploring complex topics, Maliha brings a fresh perspective to the world of politics. Her expertise and enthusiasm make her a valuable asset in fostering meaningful discussions and promoting informed opinions.

Before this Masterclass, I had not come across Dr. Pack’s work, so I started researching. I then learnt that he is the current President of the Liberal Democrats. This is when I became more excited about the discussion since I knew I’d be learning about the connections between academic politics and mainstream politics – something I had never seen before. The Masterclass with Dr. Mark Pack was incredibly informative, and not only did he provide insights from his long political career, but also gave practical advice that I want to follow in my own profession.

The Masterclass emphasised the significance of efficient communication, and the importance of being precise, succinct, and captivating in all communications. We discussed how this influenced the speaker’s political career, particularly his time as Campaign Manager for the Hornsey & Wood Green constituency. Inspired by this, I intend to work on improving my communication skills, both written and verbal, as I believe they will be critical in my career advancement. I plan on doing this by continuing to write blogs and articles in different tones and attending events that are out of my comfort zone.

Another valuable insight was the significance of networking and making connections. Dr. Pack’s journey from working behind the scenes in Parliament to becoming the President of the Liberal Democrats is a testament to this. He highlighted the importance of networking and building relationships in any professional field. Taking this to heart, I aim to actively seek out networking opportunities and cultivate meaningful relationships in my professional sphere. I am hoping to achieve this by attending local party meetings in my area and keep pushing for my ideas despite an age boundary.

Dr. Pack’s polling skills were another standout feature of the Masterclass. I was particularly intrigued by his in-depth comprehension and smart use of statistics. He demonstrated how data-driven decisions may result in more effective tactics and improved outcomes. Given the growing relevance of data today, I intend to devote time to strengthening my data analysis skills and implementing data-driven decision-making into my profession by studying various resources on statistical techniques specifically in political research and policy. This can further be useful for my upcoming dissertation.

Finally, Dr Pack’s initiative to broadcast the podcast “Never Mind the Bar Charts” demonstrated the value of lifelong learning and knowledge sharing. His commitment to educating others about political methods and trends is inspiring. Given this, I intend to seek out opportunities to contribute my expertise and experiences, either through writing or speaking engagements. This has pushed me to continue with my own podcast, and to share as much knowledge and awareness as possible. 

To summarise, our Masterclass with Dr. Mark Pack was a rewarding experience that provided me with excellent insights and concrete takeaways. I am delighted to apply the principles learnt in my upcoming career and anticipate the beneficial impact they will make.