At Cause4, we’re lucky enough to partner with The London School of Economics and Political Science, who support undergraduates in the Department of International Relations with the opportunity to enhance their studies via the LSE Internship Fund Scheme. This August, we’re thrilled to welcome Sarah Rashid, who is working alongside our team for four weeks, and getting stuck into all things Cause4. 

We thought we’d get to know Sarah a little better and ask her some questions about what she thinks about the sector. 

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your experience?

I am 20 years old, living in South London and currently attending the London School of Economics to complete a BSc in International, Social and Public Policy. Most of my experience comes from volunteering; I am a part of the Young Advisor’s Group formed for my local Children and Adolescent Mental Health Service. I am also a part of the St George’s Hospital Involvement Team. Both produce opportunities to partake in strategic planning for the improvement of their services, host events and give presentations on a number of different topics.

Why have you joined Cause4 and what are you looking to get out of the internship?

Given that most of my experience comes from volunteering, Cause4 has been a great opportunity to gain better insight into professional working. There are a lot of processes behind the scenes that I would otherwise not have become aware of. I am hopeful to enhance my understanding of the integral processes that take place to help organisations run; whether that is through research, proposals, or marketing, I am looking forward to delving into it all and seeing how they all fit together.

"Having diverse trustee boards is crucial. Trustees have such a vital role for organisations given that they oversee many key features. The boards of charities should be reflective of the communities they serve."

- Sarah Rashid, 20 

What do you think are the most important things the sector should be focusing on right now?

Having diverse trustee boards is crucial. Trustees have such a vital role for organisations given that they oversee many key features. The boards of charities should be reflective of the communities they serve. For example, this could mean having trustees with lived experiences. The board’s gender split, age groups and ethnicity are also some factors that could be considered. A diverse range brings in different perspectives, a different mix of skills and a wider variety of experiences.

Where do you see your career developing?

My aspiration is to venture into the field of Public Health. But I would also really love to set up my own charity! I am particularly passionate about dismantling the societal stigma surrounding menstruation, a critical issue in Bangladesh, where my parents are from. My personal experiences within some of my family living in Bangladesh have exposed me to the detrimental effects of inadequate education regarding menstruation. I want to actively teach young girls and women the facts around periods as well as promoting the use of sanitary products for good health but doing this with care given the cultural sensitivities.

What is one tip you would give to other people wanting to work in a non-profit?

Always bear in mind that change comes in various sizes, from the seemingly minor to the monumental. It's tempting to believe that only the obvious, high-profile shifts matter, but every aspect of an organization, including its internal mechanisms, contributes to the transformative journey. Regardless of the task at hand, acknowledge that every process carries weight, yielding an impact that shouldn't be underestimated.

Thanks Sarah, it’s great to have you on board!