Spotlight Interview: Alicia, 2027 Programme colleague

Over the years we have had some brilliant colleagues matched to us through the programme. Our most recent 2027 cohort member, Alicia, is no different!

At the heart of the placement is a full-time, paid job. Alicia has stepped up to play an important role in our grant-making team, where she manages the application process for many of the charity’s deliver partners when they apply for funding.

We sat down with Alicia to hear about her experience so far.

Alicia, let's start with what made you apply to the 2027 Programme?

Alicia: I first heard about the programme through a friend in the sector. I applied because of its focus on systemic change and shifting the power. I believe that the philanthropy sector needs more representation from people who don’t have a voice in decision making and I wanted to have the opportunity to contribute to that by bringing my own perspective.

What does your day-to-day look like at TSC?

A: I work on different applications on different stages. In a typical day I review drafted applications, doing financial analysis on others, or supporting in preparing the application booklet that’ll go to trustees. Evey morning, I check for new applications and update the data base. I also have regular meetings either with delivery partners or the team. Every two weeks I take part in EDI group sessions where we talk about issues affecting different communities and help organise activities or events for the charity.

How has working here at the charity influenced how you think about grant-making? Did you come in with any preconceptions that have since shifted? 

A: I would say I’ve always been very heart-led. The programme helps me stay grounded in that human side, but being here has given me a different perspective — that funding also needs to be strategic to have a long-term impact. In some ways, it’s almost like running a business. If funding decisions aren’t strategic, they may not be sustainable.

Everyone here knows you as part of the team, but you’re also part of a wider cohort within the 2027 intake. What has that experience been like?

A: It’s been amazing. We’ve built a real community. We support and understand each other, celebrate each other's wins, and are there for one another during challenges. Balancing personal life with work can be challenging, but the cohort has been a great source of support. Watching the cohort members gaining more confidence and growing professionally has been in many ways, healing.

What kind of activities or learning does the programme involve?

A: The programme prepares us for leadership roles in grant-making. We have workshops on participatory grant-making, shifting power dynamics, addressing unconscious bias, all aimed at helping us bring the best of ourselves into the sector. There’s also a strong emphasis on inner work, which has been incredibly valuable.

How have you found working with the team, many of whom have decades of experience in the sector?

A: It’s been a privilege to work with so many experienced people and learn from them. Either from their experience, professionalism, or values. Getting a placement at TSC has been a great learning opportunity and a rewarding experience.

Who do you think holds us accountable to make sure funding stays both human-centered and strategic?

A: I think accountability exists at every level. It starts with how we communicate with applicants, how we balance power dynamics, and continues all the way up to decision-makers like trustees. Everyone has a role to play in ensuring we stay both values-driven and effective.

What advice would you give to someone starting out as a 2027 Programme cohort member?

A: Be ready to unlearn and relearn. And don’t underestimate the value of your own lived experience. Bring your full self into the work.

Has this experience changed your long-term goals?

A: My goals haven’t changed, but this journey has made them clearer. This experience has given me the confidence to pursue the kind of work I care about and to continue learning about other people’s lived experiences so I can make more informed, empathetic funding decisions.

Finally, is there a moment from your time here that really stands out in your memory?

A: One that really stayed with me was the "Lunch and Learn" session we had with Dr Paula Granados, Head of the Endangered Material Knowledge Programme at the British Museum. The session was about cultural heritage. It was a wake-up call to be proud of your own identity and to respect and honour the identities and experiences of others.

Following the conclusion of her placement, The Seafarers’ Charity was delighted to offer Alicia a full-time position in our Impact Team.