My experience

Joanne Brooks

Project Coordinator

How long have you been with Future Quest?

I started with Future Quest in February 2021 as a part time, temp doing the role of digital communications assistant. I became a full-time temp in April 2021. In July 2021 my role became permanent and then in October 2021 my role changed to what it is now.

What does your current role within Future Quest involve?

Leasing with schools, creating, developing, organising and delivering a wide range of activities designed to help students with their journey through education and on to their chosen careers. Helping to focus on their strengths, develop new skills, learn about a variety of pathways they could take to get where they want to be and creating opportunities for them to encounter experiences they may not otherwise have.

What is your background/history before Future Quest?

I grew up in a town call Banbury in Oxfordshire. After school, I went to Stratford Upon Avon College and did a B-Tech National Diploma in Performing Arts Acting, following on from that I came to Bristol UWE and did a BA undergraduate degree in Drama with Creative Writing. I did some volunteering in Tanzania with International Citizen Service (ICS) then worked in Italy for a while in the travel and tourism industry before coming back to Bristol UWE and doing an MA in Creative Producing. I have worked in hospitality, catering, travel and tourism, healthcare both privately and with the NHS and I am now working in the education sector. I have found that many of my skills, both from my previous work experience and education, have been easily transferable and extremely beneficial in helping me succeed.

Why did you join Future Quest?

I initially joined Future Quest because I was looking for a career that had lots of opportunity to progress. I wanted it to be challenging, something I could learn a lot from, develop my skills and still do something that would benefit others.

What do you like most about working at Future Quest?

The team has a great working dynamic, and the motivation is inspiring. The project is always changing and growing, it’s exciting to be a part of. There’s lots of opportunities to share your own ideas, and there is trust, support and the facilities available help you to see many of them through to completion or actualisation.

What are your hobbies and interests?

I am involved with a number of theatre companies, including Common Flipside and Kelvin Theatre company. I have worked with them to produce shows, create soundscapes, do marketing and much more. I also have a Labrador and a lot of my spare time is spent in his company, going for walks, playing or having cuddles. This year I have also challenged myself to read one book a month, this might not seem like much to some, but as someone with dyslexia I have never been a fan of the thought of sitting down and reading very much, but so far I am really enjoying this challenge.

What is your favourite TV series/film?

I always find it hard to pick just one favourite TV series or film. I do prefer TV to films generally. I do however, love musicals, old and new, and love it even more when I get to see them live on stage!

What is an interesting fact about yourself?

I once performed in a variety show at the West End and have been in several TV shows as an extra.

What is your favourite place in Bristol?

My favourite place in Bristol is The Bristol Old Vic. I love it’s history, atmosphere and the programme of performances and experiences that host there.

What advice would you give your younger self about being a student/your career?

Live in the moment, take as many opportunities as you can and enjoy it! Make memories and try new things. Also, you have a terrible memory so take lots of photos and write things down that you want to remember well!

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