Back in November, Sarah and Leigh-Ann joined our engagement team here at The Women’s Organisation. They have settled right in and are already such a big part of our team. From cats, to archaeology, find out more about them below.
What’s your full name and where are you from?
Sarah Murphy, I’m from Belfast in Northern Ireland but have lived in Liverpool for quite a long time now.
Tell me how you first found out about The Women’s Organisation and become part of our team?
I was looking for a more suitable role aligned more with my interests in helping people, and actually applied for this job through a recruitment agency. I didn’t know I was applying to The WO until I arrived for my interview. But I was lucky enough to be taken on as part of the team.
What kind of things have you done prior to coming to The Women’s Organisation?
I lived and taught conversational English in Thailand for a year after I finished secondary school, and before starting university. I then studied Archaeology for my undergraduate and Master’s degrees, while working throughout in retail. And then moving on to an admin based role before coming to The WO.
What has surprised you about working at The Women’s Organisation?
The people are so welcoming and supportive. No question is an issue to ask, and there is never any problem explaining things I am unfamiliar with so I have more understanding of other teams roles and needs. There is such a relaxed environment in the office which is so lovely to come into every day.
What’s the best thing about working at The Women’s Organisation so far?
The office dogs, I’ve never worked in a dog-friendly environment before. But it really makes my day getting to see them wander around the office or come for a cuddle for a few minutes.
What might (someone) be surprised to know about you?
I used to swim competitively in my early teens, and I used to dance for about 5 years before going to Thailand when I was 18.
What’s your top 3 favourite films?
Howl’s Moving Castle
Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (I love all of them, but the 2nd is my favourite)
Pride and Prejudice
What do you do when you aren’t working?
I enjoy watching crime documentaries in the evenings, and play table top RPG’s with friends each weekend. I am trying to get back into reading more, I used to always have my nose buried in a book when I was younger.
If you could change anything in the world, what would you change?
I would like people to be kinder to each other. I think to a degree, a lot of issues around the world could be improved if there was more kindness or understanding to go around.
What’s your favourite quote?
“But in the end it’s only a passing thing, this shadow; even darkness must pass.”
―J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings
What’s your full name and where are you from?
Hi, my name is Leigh-Ann McCracken and I’m from Belfast.
Tell me how you first found out about The Women’s Organisation and become part of our team?
I actually went on a course at The Women’s Organisation a couple of years ago when researching courses in Liverpool. From then I have always followed The WO on social media and always said I would love to work there. As soon as I saw the job advertised, I applied straight away.
What kind of things have you done prior to coming to The Women’s Organisation?
I moved over to Liverpool in 2014 to study Business Management at John Moore’s university. While studying I also worked at Liverpool Football Club on match days along with working in a bar. My most recent job was working in a solicitors office.
What has surprised you about working at The Women’s Organisation?
It’s a very supportive place and the fact you are able to access the courses they offer.
What’s the best thing about working at The Women’s Organisation so far?
The best thing would be the working environment. It’s a very chilled place and the office dogs make it even better.
What might (someone) be surprised to know about you?
I’m fully trained in Makeup, Lashes, Spray tans and PMU treatments. I’ve always loves all things beauty so always investing in bettering myself and my skills.
What’s your top 3 favourite films?
8 mile – I’ve loved Eminem my whole life so would definitely have to say this is one of my favourites.
Garfield – I’ve got a ginger cat so I just love the film
Die hard – I love action movies but this is definitely up there in my top 3
What do you do when you aren’t working?
When I’m not working, I love going out for foods and drinks. I’m a proper foodie so love trying new places. I also love relaxing and getting cuddles off my two cats.
If you could change anything in the world, what would you change?
The cost of living. No one should have to decide on heating or eating. I just can’t believe the way the world currently is and how many people are struggling.
What’s your favourite quote?
“Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.”
The Women’s Organisation supports women in the Liverpool city region with business start up, business growth, and personal development. To find our full list of fully-funded events and workshops, click here.