Volunteering’s given me so many positive things
Krithika has spent a year volunteering in our Data Governance Team. She tells us what she’s been doing, and how she’s now considering a career in this field.
I grew up in India, where I gained a Bachelor of Engineering degree. I worked for a software firm as a Data Warehouse Engineer for a year before relocating to the UK with my husband in 2008.
I soon had the first of my two sons, and valued my time with him. My focus during those years was being there for my children. During this time I wanted to do something that kept me mentally active and engaged. So I volunteered at Citizens Advice, in a local charity shop and at my son’s school as a reading volunteer.
Improving my skills
As my sons grew up, I started to think about my career again. I started applying for a variety of jobs and was offered a position at a university. After such a long career break, I felt proud to have secured the role. It was an encouraging step forward. But as I settled into the work, I realised it didn’t quite align with my interests or strengths. And balancing it alongside my family responsibilities proved difficult.
Ultimately, I made the decision to step away. It was a tough decision, but it helped me to better understand the kind of work I truly want to do. I enrolled in online data bootcamps to improve my knowledge in database management and software programming languages. I also completed an international software testing qualification and started freelancing as a software tester.
Seeking new challenges
Having a keen interest in working with data, I applied for the Data Governance Volunteer Support role at the MS Society.
I find the discipline of detailed, accurate work and the chance to solve problems through logic rewarding and fulfilling.
This role’s given me an opportunity to challenge myself, build confidence, and explore a career in data governance.
Now, I volunteer from home for a flexible four hours per week, which works well around my family life. I’m lucky to have an amazing manager. She’s very patient, and has been incredibly supportive and encouraging throughout my time here. She values my presence and my contribution, and I appreciate that. This experience has helped me grow in many ways. I’m gaining hands-on experience and building confidence in a professional setting after a long career break — and enjoying it!
Keeping data safe
My main responsibilities are around a privacy management platform called One Trust. This holds an inventory of all the activity across the MS Society that involves collecting and processing personal data. The Data Governance Team has to ensure these activities are GDPR compliant. I help by reviewing the data entries on One Trust so colleagues can check that the information we have about their data processing activity is up to date.
Understanding how One Trust works was a bit challenging at first. But I kept asking lots of questions, and did my own research by watching webinars and exploring resources. My parents instilled a strong work ethic in me, so I’m committed to continuous learning in everything I do. And I’m punctual, reliable and enthusiastic. I’ve found it truly rewarding to develop my understanding of data governance.
Playing my part
I’ve also had the opportunity to attend meetings alongside colleagues in the wider team — to find out how different departments collaborate, and how data governance supports everything the MS Society does.
It’s rewarding to understand how what I’m doing as a volunteer plays a part in keeping the whole organisation compliant with GDPR.
And it was great to meet others and feel included.
I’m happy that I found this sector. I’d never really thought about an organisation having a team monitoring what’s happening behind the data they collect. Now, with the knowledge and skills I’ve gained, I’m thinking about getting a certification in GDPR and seeking work in data governance.
Volunteering’s given me so many positive things. I’ve developed my own skills whilst helping an excellent charity. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone wanting to get back into work after a career break — to gain more experience and the chance to network. So, if you’ve been thinking about it, just go for it!
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