AFTER a change of career heart, I decided I would like to try work in the charity sector. As a sign of the times though, I knew I needed to do a few months of work experience to become more ‘employable.’


I learnt about Quintessentially Foundation through WEXO. Quintessentially Foundation is the not-for-profit department of Quintessentially, the world’s luxury leading lifestyle group. Quintessentially Foundation has the benefit of being surrounded by sister companies, such as an events department and a design team, all who lend their expertise to the Foundation internally. This helps reduce costs, meaning there is more left in the budget to donate to charity.


From the first day, I enjoyed the challenges of working in the charity sector. It was exciting to think of new ways to raise funds and rewarding to donate such large sums to our charities. I was attracted to the variety between larger long term projects, and the smaller, more immediate fundraising ideas. I was given plenty of tasks to work on independently. Amongst others, the highlights have been the background research for a charity cycle ride, organising an online auction of luxury gifts for Valentines’ Day and a series of talks on philanthropic themes.


I feel I have learnt a great deal about the charity sector in a short while and I’ve been inspired by the worthwhile nature of the work. I am attracted to the great balance between organisation and creativity that the role has demanded of me and would recommend an internship at Quintessentially Foundation to anyone looking to start a career in fundraising, charity, or even in the events sector.