Last week, our new Fundraising Officer, Rory joined the AKU team. His role will focus on maximising revenue through funding applications, corporate partnerships and community fundraising. In this week’s blog, Rory tells us a little bit about himself, what inspired him to work for the AKU Society and what he hopes to achieve in the new role.
What were you doing before you joined the AKU Society?
I was doing an internship for the Leprosy Mission where I was working in their fundraising department. My role involved writing proposals and doing research into trusts and foundations. Prior to this, I had spent 6 years teaching English in France, Mexico and Italy. I really enjoyed my experience volunteering with disadvantaged children in Mexico and this motivated me to look for a job in the charity sector.
What attracted you to the role?
I really liked the idea of working for a small charity that gives me the opportunity to have more of a tangible effect. The clinical research that the charity is doing also really appealed to me. One of my friends suffers from CGD, another rare disease so I’m aware of the difficulties faced by rare disease patients and would love the opportunity to make a difference to this community. I really enjoyed my fundraising internship at the Leprosy mission and am keen to gain more experience in this area and make a difference to AKU patients.
What do you hope to achieve in the role?
I want to raise as much money as possible to support AKU patients. I’m really looking forward to meeting the patients to better understand the plight of those living with a rare disease. Meeting the patients will give me a better understanding of their needs and get an idea of the sort of projects that will benefit them. Ultimately, I want to improve the lives of rare disease patients around the world.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
I am really into my sports and enjoy running, playing tennis and watching football and boxing. I also love literature and spend a lot of time reading and writing and have even written a couple of novels.
Favourite book/ film/ TV show and why?
My favourite film is The Departed, as it is such a classic Scorsese. My favourite TV show is The Wire – an American crime drama which is really well written. My favourite book is Tess of the d’Urbervilles written by my favourite author, Thomas Hardy.As our brand new Fundraising Officer, Rory is really keen to talk to our patients, learn more about their needs and discuss future projects and fundraising plans. To get in contact, email