Celebrating Our Team: A Year of Growth and Impact at Open Lens Media

Everyone at OLM would like to say thank you to Tahlena, our Employability and Development Coach, and Damaris, our Programme Delivery Facilitator, for their hard work, dedication, and passion over the past year.

We asked them both to give us a recap of how they found their first year working with us and what they are looking forward to in the next year.

Reflections from Tahlena

As my work anniversary approaches, I’ve been reflecting on how much I’ve genuinely enjoyed my role at Open Lens Media. Being part of a team committed to meaningful change has been incredibly fulfilling. Knowing that the work we do can positively impact someone’s life gives real purpose to each day.

As a mentor, it’s especially rewarding to support the growth, confidence, and aspirations of the young adults we work with. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity, understanding, and space I’ve been given to grow — not just professionally, but personally.

When you’re trusted and supported in an environment that allows you to thrive, it naturally shapes how you support others. That kind of growth is powerful and contagious. It helps us show up fully for the young people we serve and empowers them to believe in their own potential.

Because when people are seen, supported, and trusted, they begin to flourish. Flourishing people create flourishing communities. That’s the kind of change that lasts.

Insights from Damaris

It's been a year already! Time has flown while working at Open Lens Media. I still remember when I started, finding my feet and flow as a facilitator. Navigating what it looks like to show up authentically was a challenge. Who knew that three years after being filmed for the 1 in 1 million series in 2021, I would have progressed so far and have the incredible opportunity of now working with such an amazing team?

In this year, I have journeyed with participants on the Pathways Programme. I’ve had the honour of seeing them grow in confidence, feel supported through employment, and move forward into higher education. I have also taken the lead in delivering sessions at external organisations such as Aaina Hub and The Way. Additionally, I’ve been equipped through training to better my practice.

Although challenges have come in my role as a facilitator, I believe that it's all about the small incremental steps I take each day. These steps have made a difference in shifting my perspective to become more solution-oriented.

One of my highlights at Open Lens has been that we do life with each other. We are intentional about scheduling time for sociable hours and keeping each other accountable for our personal goals or hobbies. I’ve enjoyed this so much and look forward to how much more we can accomplish together.

Moving forward, I will shift gears to continue showing up on purpose. I aim to remain consistent each day by sharpening my skills in my practice. As highlighted in our last training day, it’s not just about doing work but doing the right work.

Tahlena and Damaris have made significant contributions to Open Lens Media in their first year. Their dedication and passion are inspiring. As we move forward, we are excited to see how they will continue to grow and impact the lives of those we work with.