Yesterday was my first day in DC and it was filled with a completely overwhelming experience – new people, new building, new badge (which i promptly lost), new city, new apartment, new way to get to work (walking and metro)…this list goes on. AND, I have about 8 million ‘things’ to learn. Like GSK, every organization has acronyms – ILGA, SOGIE, NGLHRC, GALCK,…..
But, as overwhelming as it was, it was also amazing. I’ll be working primarily with the Open For Business ‘core team’. Drew, CJ and I are in DC and Yvonne is in Nairobi. They’ve been so welcoming and warm as they indoctrinate me. I spent most of the day learning about the Open for Business Coalition partners (including GSK!), the civil society partners and other business organizations all working to advance LGBT+ rights.
Today it’s on to financials, research, programs, and specifically my role. I’ll be:
70% focused on research strategy, funding & activation
20% global and local influencer programs
10% developing a healthcare specific initiative that GSK will lead.
I’ll let you know what all that means as soon as I figure it out.
PS…I couldn’t escape open floor plan!!!
PULSE Volunteer Partnership 
Tisha – great to hear about your first day! Hope you can learn all of the 8 million things in the next 6 months.. cant wait to hear more about your experience! p.s So funny that you lost your badge on first day;) Best, Manu.
I hope your first week has been just as exciting as your first day Tisha & that even though there is a lot to learn, it has been an energising week.
Welcome to OFB Tisha. We are glad to have you join us!