Meet Our Policy and Impact Manager: Raje Ballagan-Evans

Why Policy in the charity sector?

Working to shape policy and challenge impact is often collaborative and fun. People with knowledge, experience and the intention to deliver good services coming together to share expertise is powerful. I love analysing strategy in the context of application; working backwards from lived experience to policy and approach.

Why SIG?

I was attracted to SIG because it offered an opportunity to work with an activist approach for so many groups experiencing barriers and intersectionality. One of the motivating factors for me in taking the step of actually applying for this role was researching the organisation.

I came across SIG’s social media and saw their posts spotlighting women like Angela Henry and Victoria Sweetman who shared their professional ideas, bold approaches but also challenges in expressing their whole selves at work over their careers. Being in a space that fosters expression is important to me so I applied…

Ironically though, when I first joined SIG I was the only woman in my team! But what a great team that continues to grow and support each other.

What Motivates you?

Sometimes challenging structures and organisations far bigger than me can be isolating and even intimidating. But I feel compelled to carry on because I think of people I have known, met or read about and I find that the demand and hope of justice gives me courage. 50 cent titled his debut studio album “Get Rich or Die Tryin’” and I take a “Get Equity or Die Tryin’” approach to life and work.

What are the Aspirations for External Affairs Team and SIG?

As we move forward, I am excited for External Affairs Team to create opportunities for colleagues, residents and participants to influence the influencers, the people who make decisions for local and national policy, which shape our lives and communities.

Upcoming highlights for me are person-centred events where can create space to advocate for just policy, working as a team with residents and participants! I know that many times, it will only be possible for me, Adam or Norman to participate in public platforms but we are armed with the stories of so many people.

Our residents and participants have built a solid foundation with us through our focus groups, casting the light of their experience, humility and wisdom, into the darkness created by stigma and discrimination.