OW Spotlight Honor Crawford

Can you tell us a bit more about yourself and what you do? 

After graduating from Wellington in the summer of 2020, I went on to study Combined Honours in Social Sciences at Durham, specialising in Middle Eastern Politics and East African History. My academic path took me far beyond the lecture hall – quite literally as, not long after finishing university, I accepted an offer as a Foreign Policy Intern for the Kurdistan Region Presidency of Iraq. During my three months in Iraq, I advocated for greater geostrategic recognition of the intersection between Middle Eastern and African regional dynamics, turning my academic focus into real-world impact. Working closely with the Foreign Policy Analysis Unit, under the leadership of Falah Mustafa (the Special Assistant to the President for Foreign Affairs), I deepened my passion for international policy, travel, communication, cross-cultural collaboration and regional strategy.  

Over the past year, I’ve worked in Strategic Communications at M&C Saatchi World Services – a specialist division of M&C Saatchi that harnesses cutting-edge communications and technology to help Western governments solve some of the world’s most complex challenges.  

 

What inspired you to work in strategic communications? 

My path into strategic communications was shaped by a combination of academic inquiry, creative drive and lived experience. At university, I was drawn to the role of language and discourse within international relations – culminating in a dissertation that analysed how British media portrayed Ukrainian versus Afghan refugees. Having worked in refugee camps in Calais, I saw first-hand the stark contrast between media narratives and the realities on the ground. These experiences highlighted how powerful – and sometimes problematic – communications can be in shaping public understanding and policy decisions. Strategic communications offered a space where I could apply both critical analysis and creative thinking to global challenges, and contribute to more responsible storytelling on issues that matter. 

 

Where would you like to be in 10 years? 

Where would I like to be in 10 years… who knows! I’ve always prioritised passion over a rigid plan. That mindset has led me to some of the most unexpected and rewarding experiences so far. Rather than fixating on a single destination, I’ve learned to trust my instincts, stay curious and remain open to wherever the next opportunity might lead – whether that’s across borders, sectors or entirely new fields.  

One thing that’s always been important to me is working directly with the people most affected by global social issues, to ensure I never lose sight of the individuals behind the policies.  

 

What would you say are essential life skills or traits for young people today? 

In today’s competitive world, it’s natural for young people to feel hesitant about stepping outside the norm. My strongest advice is to keep your curiosity alive and actively cultivate it. Stay committed to whatever sparks your interest – that focus will open doors. Take risks by doing something different or unexpected, even if it feels uncomfortable. It’s often those bold moves that make the biggest impact and make you stand out from the crowd.  

 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given? 

There are two pieces of advice that have really shaped how I live and work: 

1.If you don’t ask, you don’t get! Be bold and go after things, even if they may seem out of reach. I’ve learned that speaking up and asking for what you want often opens doors.  

2.If you’re unhappy with something then change it – and if you can’t change it, change your mindset. Remember you are in the driving seat for your life and career whether that is making a change, tasking a risk or shifting your outlook and attitude.  

 

Do you have a fond memory from your time at Wellington – or a particular teacher who stood out? 

So many teachers influenced me in different ways: 

Dr. Gardner introduced me to Social Sciences, where I found both direction and motivation throughout the university application process. Her belief in my potential pushed me to think bigger and have confidence in my abilities.  

Mr Tapley and the Wellington College Peace and Conflict Institute nurtured my curiosity for the world, showing me ways to make a difference and introducing me to charities I continue to work with to this day.  

Mr. Wayman taught me the importance of humour, resilience and leadership – along with how to handle a house full of 60 lively teenage girls, should that ever come in handy…  

Featured in the 2024 – 2025 Yearbook