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The voice of Scotland’s vibrant voluntary sector

Published by Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations

TFN is published by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, Mansfield Traquair Centre, 15 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh, EH3 6BB. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation. Registration number SC003558.

Chief encounters: Dawn Fyfe

This feature is over 7 years old
 

Dawn Fyfe is director of SAY Women, which offers safe, supported accommodation and related services for young women who are survivors of childhood sexual abuse, rape or sexual assault. She tells TFN when makes her tick.

What is the first thing you do when you arrive at work?

First thing I do when arriving is switch on my computer. This gives it a chance to charge up while I open up the building! Emails are first check of the day.

What makes a good day at work?

When you hear one of the young women has progressed in something she has been hoping to pursue. We are lucky in SAY Women as young women come through the door looking for change and so it is a very positive atmosphere.

How often do you socialise with colleagues outside the Christmas party?

I’m afraid in SAY Women we are terrible at socialising together. Even the Christmas party is a bit of a struggle!

Dawn Fyfe
Dawn Fyfe

What turns you into the office Victor Meldrew?

Trivial things being made into a crisis and taking over everyone’s time.

What was the last thing you did that scared you?

I don’t scare easily, or being more honest don’t pursue scary encounters. I went yachting once with a group of young people. That was scary. Couldn’t balance the yacht and simply went round in circles. Terrifying but great fun.

What’s your favourite book?

So many, but recently read Angela Davis’ Freedom Is a Constant Struggle: Ferguson, Palestine, and the Foundations of a Movement. Excellent read.

Would your 16-year-old self be impressed with where you are now?

Shocked, but yes I think she would be impressed. It was where she hoped she would be.

If you were your boss would you like you?

Yes I think so, although I analyse everything, so might be slightly irritating at times!

Is Facebook your friend or your enemy?

Facebook can be an insight into friends’ minds that you didn’t need, however nine times out of ten it’s great for alternative information.

What’s your perfect weekend?

Good company, great music and a right good sleep.

Are animals as important as people?

Yes. Someone wise once reminded me that how we treat all living creatures, including humans, is linked. Respect for life is core to our humanity.

Is the third sector a calling or an accident?

Definitely a calling.

Is this a rung on the ladder to success or your final destination?

I don’t think it is my final destination, although I love my job and it wouldn’t be a chore if it was. I have valued every opportunity I have had in all my jobs, even when putting tomato sauce on pizzas for two days! Every day is a school day.

Is world peace possible?

Yes. Only humans can prevent it.

Which Brian Cox?

Definitely the funny one (your choice!).