During my 1.5-year tenure at Friends of Limehouse as the volunteering Marketing and Partnerships director, I helped shape this community group’s business strategy in the middle of a cultural war on low-traffic neighbourhoods. I launched and grew Friends of Limehouse’s communication strategy, including its multi-channel social media presence.
I ran educational events for families at local schools and community centres, providing the residents with tools to mitigate the impact of air pollution on their health. I built strategic partnerships, for instance, with Breathe London, which gave Friends of Limehouse an air pollution monitor. I organized and led multiple educational events, such as a talk on air pollution and a Clean Air Night at the Sir William Burrough School.
Here, you can download tips on mitigating the effects of air pollution on your family’s health.
I invited a local photographer, Adam Isfendiyar, to help with air pollution in East London. His project ‘Our Air’, created with WHO and Wellcome Centre, featuring families impacted by air pollution, is now exhibited across Europe.
If you want to support this grassroots project, please spread the word and set up an EasyFundrising account that will send a tiny percent from your online purchases towards the case — free for you, paid by the brands you’re shopping for.
Testimonials
I was able to attend the assembly on air pollution in the end and was very glad I did. The children were so engaged, with hands flying up everywhere each time Marina asked for their input (which she did throughout!). They were clearly interested in the subject and eager to know more, and Marina was great at handling all the rapid-fire interactions.
I think the importance of educating the children about the topic was very well demonstrated when Marina asked them whether Limehouse’s air pollution levels were a) good b) average or c) above the legally acceptable limits, and harmful to your health. There were lots of answers of a) and b), but I don’t think there was a single answer of c), which was (of course) the correct answer. But now they know, and can talk to us about what we do in our own lives to improve/circumvent the poor air quality here. Leo and I have been making an extra effort since going across Limehouse Basin and under the bridge on our cycle to school to minimise the time we spend on Commercial Road!Robbie McIntyre, a parent of a child studying at SWB
Marina joined Friends of Limehouse in late 2022 and completely transformed the outreach of this non-profit. She’s created a business and communications strategy, partnered with authorities and communities, run multiple successful events for families and raised awareness about sustainability issues, thinking strategically and acting locally.
I’ve done several collaborative projects with Marina. I love her strategic, hands-on approach to creative ventures and the ability to navigate a fast environment, lead teams and facilitate change.
With Marina’s support, I created an art project in sustainability that has been exhibited all in the UK and abroad. I’m looking forward to more collaborations.