UofG Sound Tracks

5.8 Melvin Breton on his global career with UNICEF and harnessing the power of tech

Melvin’s career in social and economic policy has taken him from the Dominican Republic to East Timor, China and now New York City where he is a Policy Specialist at UNICEF.   Melvin is a self-described ‘technology enthusiast’ and tech is a theme we return to throughout this episode. Melvin discusses the implications of new technology for policy work and how students and graduates can harness tech to prepare themselves for a rapidly changing workplace. He has some great advice on how to make the most of new tools and apps and how AI can function as a thinking partner, freeing up your time for generating new ideas.   Melvin has some top tips on how to prepare yourself for landing that international role you had always dreamed of. He shares his experience of arriving in China, with no Mandarin, and turning to technology to survive – learning very quickly how to order food on delivery apps.

5.9 Kirsty Hassard on knowing your value and shining in the competitive museum sector

Kirsty takes us on her journey from UofG history student to working at the V&A, where she’s been involved in exhibitions ranging from nightclubs to robotics, and now Tartan, the first exhibition to be curated solely by V&A Dundee.   You’ll get an insight into the day-to-day work of a curator, from researching and choosing objects, to speaking to press, shaping learning programmes, installing exhibitions and ultimately feeling an enormous sense of pride when a new show opens its doors. No week is the same in this hugely varied job!  Kirsty landed her first job at V&A after a string of rejections, and she shares her sound advice on how to shine in the competitive museum sector. Kirsty shares how to get the most out of volunteering and work experience to ensure you build your expertise and don’t feel exploited.   Kirsty’s passion for curating and telling stories through objects shines through in this episode!

5.7 Salem Avan on UN peacekeeping and heart-based leadership

Salem Avan has worked on UN peacekeeping missions in Africa, the Middle East and Europe, an experience which he tells us fundamentally changed his understanding of the world and how people live.   Salem progressed from management to leadership roles, and in this episode he discusses the important differences between the two, and why he takes a ‘heart based leadership’ approach, focusing on respect, dignity, equality and psychological safety at work.   Now based in New York City, he oversees technology within the UN, the projects he leads are seismic and have global impact, such as understanding the financing and travel of terrorists.  Salem provides a fascinating insight into how the proliferation and development of technology impacts the work of the UN and discusses the topics that will confront humanity in the future, from human rights and ethics in AI, to cyber security and how to govern technology.

5.6 Part 2 Claire and Cristina's inside track on working in the Civil Service

In this special two-part episode get the inside track on working in the civil service from two recent graduates who both made early career changes into policy roles.   Neither Claire nor Cristina did the Civil Service fast stream programme. They found their own paths. In this episode, we take a deep dive into what these unconventional routes can look like: what inspired them to work in government, the application process, and important knowledge and insight learnt along the way.   Claire found the application and interview process clear and simple, but it took her a few attempts before landing her first role. Taking on feedback and persevering paid off, resulting in an environment she finds supportive, open, and filled with opportunities. Claire shares her tips for mastering the STAR approach to applications and how to build up a bank of examples that showcase your skills and experience.   Cristina has worked in several high-profile departments including the cabinet office and the treasury and hasn’t shied away from challenging policy topics, such as crisis including Brexit, covid and climate change. Throughout the episode, she shares her knowledge of government, introduces us to civil service culture, and explains what team dynamics she thrives in. As she's progressed, Cristina has learnt to have confidence in her knowledge and skills whilst not being afraid to ask questions of the experts. Her advice to herself? Put less pressure on yourself, be kinder, and avoid comparing yourself to others.

5.6 Part 1 Claire and Cristina's inside track on working in the Civil Service

In this special two-part episode get the inside track on working in the civil service from two recent graduates who both made early career changes into policy roles.   Neither Claire nor Cristina did the Civil Service fast stream programme. They found their own paths. In this episode, we take a deep dive into what these unconventional routes can look like: what inspired them to work in government, the application process, and important knowledge and insight learnt along the way.   Claire found the application and interview process clear and simple, but it took her a few attempts before landing her first role. Taking on feedback and persevering paid off, resulting in an environment she finds supportive, open, and filled with opportunities. Claire shares her tips for mastering the STAR approach to applications and how to build up a bank of examples that showcase your skills and experience.   Cristina has worked in several high-profile departments including the cabinet office and the treasury and hasn’t shied away from challenging policy topics, such as crisis including Brexit, covid and climate change. Throughout the episode, she shares her knowledge of government, introduces us to civil service culture, and explains what team dynamics she thrives in. As she's progressed, Cristina has learnt to have confidence in her knowledge and skills whilst not being afraid to ask questions of the experts. Her advice to herself? Put less pressure on yourself, be kinder, and avoid comparing yourself to others.