I am the Senior Finance Officer at DIVA for Equality and have worked in both mainstream civil society organisations and now with a feminist organisation. Looking back, I can see how different these experiences have been and how they have helped me grow.

When I worked in a non-feminist organisation, my main focus was on doing my job well. I made sure I met deadlines, completed my work accurately, and followed the rules. It taught me discipline, responsibility, and helped me build my skills and confidence.

Working in a feminist organisation has been a different experience. I have learned that work is not only about getting the job done. It is also about caring for people, listening to different opinions, respecting one another, and making sure everyone feels included and valued.

I have also learned more about equality, human rights, and why it is important to speak up for fairness. Even though I work in finance, I now understand that my role helps support the organisation’s mission. Good financial management helps make sure programs and activities can continue to support the communities we serve.

This experience has also helped me become more understanding, open-minded, and willing to learn from others. I have learned that everyone has different experiences, and we can all learn by listening to each other.

Both workplaces have helped me in different ways. One helped me build my career and professional skills, while the other has helped me grow as a person and see the world differently.

I am thankful for both experiences because they have made me the person I am today. I know I still have a lot to learn, and I look forward to continuing to grow, both in my work and in my life.

This blog is written by Akanisi Wati, Senior Finance Officer, DIVA for Equality