New to the job is a feature where we meet people from across the sector who have taken on a new role. If you want to take part email ben.black@bronafon.org.uk
What is your name?
Dusi Thomas
Where do you work and what do you do?
I am the Sustainability & Environmental Manager for Bron Afon Community Housing. In short, I focus on enabling Bron Afon to embed sustainability in its operations to deliver services to its customers and community.
Why did you choose a career in housing?
I worked for a not-for-profit organisation in Wales for 17 years. I wanted to be able to continue to give back to the community. I live in through my profession and my job. An opportunity with Bron Afon just came along at the right time for me to move to a new sector, and I feel fits with my values.
What is the most important thing you have you learned since starting your career in housing?
It has only been six months, and an odd six months due to the Covid-19. However, it is so obvious that people in the sector, in Bron Afon specifically, are passionate about what they do and they have a strong sense of their role in supporting others in the communities that they operate within.
What advice would you give someone applying for a job in housing?
You should have a go, and don’t feel that just because you have not worked in the sector before you wouldn’t be able to contribute. All sectors can do with ‘new blood’ now and again to bring in different perspectives and to challenge the norm for the better.
Where would you be working, if not in housing?
Environmental sector, with NGOs, something that is useful for the environment and people.
What motivates you?
Doing the right things to improve people life, to see that I contribute for better outcomes.
What do you do to relax?
Being with my family, chatting with my child, meditation, …do nothing, if I can find time for it!
Proudest moment?.
As an individual, my proudest moments are all about my child’s happiness and her sense of achievement.
As a professional, I pat myself on the back when I achieve a goal I set for myself. I contributed to some major solutions to protect and conserve the natural environment for Wales in my previous job in the water Industry. I take pride in what I have achieved and I am hoping to be able to have many proud moments moving forward in the housing sector.
The most embarrassing moment?
Hmm, I wouldn’t want to remind myself of that, and I surely do not want to have it written down. Sorry!
What was the last film you watched and how did you rate it?
Parasite, 2019 South Korean black comedy thriller, directed by Bong Joon-ho. Poetic, artistic, thought provoking and meaningful.