Finding synergies and building connections

Having worked in the non-profit sector for years, Sarah has a wealth of experience in bringing organisations together to embark on meaningful social work. Based in the US, she connects companies in Potato Productions with a network of organisations in the States, helping Potato companies make a footprint across borders.

Read on to find out more the motivation for her to stay in the non-profit sector and the causes she is passionate about!

1. Tell us a little about yourself!

When I’m not working or spending time with my husband and two kids, I enjoy reading all types of books, and listening to audiobooks and podcasts. The one activity I have regularly practiced for over 20 years is yoga, and I recently enrolled in a yoga teacher training class, which I hope to complete by the end of this year (fingers crossed!) .

2. Share with us more about what you do at Potato.

I serve as liaison to Potato Productions on the US West Coast, and support collaborations and partnerships between Potato companies and like-minded US-based organizations. Finding synergies, mutually-beneficial connections and learnings that benefit social good are my passion!

3. What are some interesting projects you have done for Potato?

Formalizing the partnership between Potato Productions and Stanford’s Center for Human Rights and International Justice was a fulfilling initiative for me, as I see it as a first step towards leveraging connections and expertise between the two organizations - one that I hope will result in impactful projects and collaborations.

4. What are some common misconceptions about your job?

My children think that I work in the food sector when I talk to them about my “Potato work” so that causes the most confusion/misconceptions about my job :)

5. What is something unexpected about working at Potato?

It has been a wonderful journey learning from my colleagues across all the Potato companies. Everyone is passionate about their work and are very knowledgeable about their respective sectors - it has been a pleasant surprise being able to learn from so many people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

6. You have many years of experience as a non-profit professional, what motivates you to continue staying in the nonprofit sector?

I consider it a privilege to work in the nonprofit sector, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with so many dedicated colleagues who seek to make a positive impact in the lives of those who are less fortunate.  Each day presents new challenges and opportunities that I am excited to engage in, and being able to work with passionate and like-minded colleagues to do this work brings me a lot of joy and fulfillment.

7. Share with us some of the causes you are passionate about and why!

Trying to narrow the causes I am passionate about is tough, but if I have to pick a few that tug at my heartstrings, they would broadly be in education; women and girls’ empowerment; environmental sustainability; and social justice issues. Having access to quality education can have profound impacts on individuals, families, and communities, and extends nationally and globally. I am a feminist and gender equity is very important to me across all aspects of life.  Social justice and environmental issues disproportionately and negatively affect those who are most marginalized and vulnerable, so supporting those communities are critical.

8. What is different about working in Singapore vs. The States?

One prominent difference between working in Singapore and the US is the size and scale of projects, networks and impact, largely due to the population and geographical makeup; and then there is the role of civil society, the government, and businesses, which has the power to shift and change the future and determine the success/failure of entire sectors.  On the other hand, and broadly speaking, in terms of the tech sector, I see more similarities than differences, especially with Potato having highly technically skilled staff who enjoy geeking out on the latest technologies, gadgets and devices - not too different from US tech folks :)

9. (Just for fun) What would a perfect day be like for you?

A great day for me would be one that is balanced and relaxed with time spent alone, and with family and friends. I prefer to be outdoors, walking, hiking or fishing, and sharing delicious meals with loved ones throughout the day.

If you want to have a chat with Sarah to find out more about her experiences, click here!