** This blog was written by Harsh and Jay**
We are thrilled to announce the newest additions to the iNetwork and iStandUK teams. Joining us for their placement year: Harsh Rudhun, Partnership Support and Comms Officer and Jay Prajapati, Partnership Support and Comms Officer, both bring fresh energy, knowledge and enthusiasm to the team.
In his role Harsh, will be working closely with colleagues across the organisation to support key communications and partnership initiatives including playing an active role delivering our upcoming Annual Conference: Shaping Change that Delivers 2026. Harsh will be collaborating with teams across the organisation to help drive engaging campaigns and build strong relationships within our network.
Currently in his second year studying a degree in marketing, Harsh has developed a strong focus on creative strategies and problem solving. Upon joining this role, Harsh has shared the following:
“As a marketing placement student I am passionate about creative strategy, I am excited to have this opportunity to apply what I have learnt in the past two years during my marketing degree. I strive to build connections and collaborate with industry specialists. Outside of work I am a big sports fan. I enjoy basketball, football and golf. I love being outdoors and staying active! I am looking forward to joining the team, getting to know everyone and making a genuine impact! ”
Also joining as a Partnership Support and Communications Officer, Jay who is currently studying Computer Science at Manchester Metropolitan University is eager to explore how data and digital thinking can drive better outcomes in the public sector. He is particularly interested in understanding how the decisions made at a national level translate into practical action on the ground and how data shapes the way organisations operate and communicate.
In his role, Jay will leverage his technical background to support iStandUK’s partnership activities, help analyse engagement data and contribute to projects that sit at the intersection of technology and stakeholder communication.
On his appointment, Jay commented:
“I am a computer science student at Manchester Metropolitan University with a strong interest in data and how it works within organisations and how it can shape our future. I am excited to have this opportunity to apply the technical skills I have developed so far at University. I look forward to building connections with stakeholders and colleagues from the technical side alike. Outside of work, I love running, going to the gym and playing cricket. I am looking forward to joining the team and contributing to different projects.”
