No Task Too Small, A Summer Placement with Rippleacts

The ‘Ripple’ impact of giving it a go! Our student researcher, Sofea,

highlights memorable aspects of all things Rippleacts during her 10-week

experience.

When I first reached out for a placement role at Rippleacts, I was

nervous about what my responsibilities would entail. Initially, I

thought I would be doing unexciting ‘intern’ tasks, such as running

mundane printing errands or fetching coffee for staff. However, after

a lovely conversation with Verena, our CEO, over Teams, I was

delighted to be proven wrong and instantly knew my summer

placement would be something worthwhile. Hailing from the tropical concrete jungle of Kuala Lumpur, I was keen to explore and get to know the local social enterprise community here in Norwich.

Rippleacts provided the pathway to learn the inner workings of a local organisation, as well as get to know other social enterprises and the profound work they contribute to the local community. I was amazed to discover that

there is a monthly Norwich network meeting for all the charities to

join. It highlights the camaraderie and the eagerness of everyone involved to catch up and congratulate each other on the wonderful progress they have accomplished.

A memorable time I recall was my first official week, when I learned

how to conduct thematic coding for the first time. We were in the

final process of completing our annual impact report, and I had to

derive key themes from our evaluation questionnaires. It was

uncharted territory for me, and I wanted to make sure my first task

was accomplished properly. I decided to give it a go. And after

searching up relevant academic journals and a couple of YouTube

tutorial videos later (guilty!), I managed to get it done!

As the weeks went by, I engaged in a variety of work. From scouting

potential employability opportunities at the Royal Norfolk Show,

assisting the team at the Rippleacts booth in job fairs, to conducting

a thorough grant research session at the Norwich Consolidated

Charities.

I had the opportunity to browse through their extensive

and comprehensive fund database, which led me to discover the

massive network of funds available here in Norfolk. There is always

something available for everyone if you have the means to find it.

Witnessing participants’ immense satisfaction over their hard work

on a Ripple project was truly inspiring.

Without Rippleacts, I wouldn’t have learned and gained new insights working with a local social enterprise. As I enter my final undergraduate year this September, I am eager to implement the useful analytical and soft skills I’ve gained during my role as a student researcher here. Despite the multitude of tasks, I realise I still have a lot to learn. However, I am grateful to Verena and our Marketing and Development Coordinator Anna for their constant guidance and encouragement. My experience will surely add more fuel to my future aspirations.

The best is yet to come, I am excited to see what the next chapter

will entail for Rippleacts.