Ever wondered what it takes to be a charity trustee? Who can do it and what does it involve?
The topic of trusteeship, and what being a good charity trustee requires, has recently been a hot topic for the media. There has also been growing discussion around the idea of getting younger people involved as charity trustees. So, for this week’s blog we spoke to one of Our Moon’s trustees, Vic Hancock-Fell, to hear about what motivates her to be a trustee, what the role involves and what she hopes to achieve.
Vic is passionate about non-profits, equality and being the change you want to see in the world. She began her career as a secondary teacher, before working for a small UK charity where she gained experience of working within India, Uganda, Zimbabwe and Zambia. She went on to work for a UK university recruiting international students from South East Asia. She now works as a charity consultant and is currently working with a charity she co-founded in 2008, called Team Kenya. Vic recently got married and lives in Brighton with her husband and cat called Niko. She also finds time to act as a trustee to Our Moon and here’s why…
So Vic, how did you first hear about Our Moon?
I knew Helen from a previous role and was aware that she felt passionately about young people in Zambia.
Why do you believe Our Moon’s work is important?
I believe in equality, regardless of gender, country of origin, economic status or any other distinguishing characteristic – I believe Our Moon’s work is important as we are working hard to allow all young people equal access to education. Not only this, we are encouraging them to consider the impact of their carer choice and asking them to consider carers that contribute to social and economic development.
What change do you hope Our Moon can make?
I hope Our Moon can give young people the freedom of choice that I have been privileged to have in my life. Everyone deserves to complete their education and have the opportunity to give back to their community and country.
What do you do as an Our Moon trustee?
My main responsibility is to support the governance function of the charity, though I also support with guidance and advice about marketing, fundraising, programme development and partnership management.
What do you hope to contribute to Our Moon?
I hope I can contribute some of the things I have learned through co-founding Team Kenya and through my experience working in the non-profit sector.
What advice would you give to a student thinking of applying to higher education?
Do what you are passionate about, not what you think will bring you success. Think about what success means for you, it doesn’t have to mean a high salary. Be compassionate and thoughtful in your choice of career and how you want to live your life.
Who inspires you?
I don’t really have one person who inspires me- I’m inspired daily by normal people who care about others and act with kindness and compassion.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy music, festivals, reading, cinema and getting some fresh air in the great outdoors! My ideal weekend would involve having a lie-in, spending time with my husband, doing something active, going to the cinema and ending it all with a delicious veggie Sunday roast in one of Brighton’s lovely pubs!
And finally, what’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
Probably climbing Mount Kenya in 2007!