Sofia Maria Delgado

Currently interning at Youmakeit, an exciting, new, bespoke design Start Up based in London.

I worked along an organization named ARTA that worked in bringing back old craft techniques in a multicultural neighbourhood in Lisbon to create innovative and handmade products. There, thanks to the collaborative environment and the team’s focus on allowing creativity, I was able to experiment with different techniques, learning how to create pieces of furniture and clothing with my own hands making my experience greatly fulfilling.

I worked as a CSR for Nielsen Spain serving customers by providing product and service information and solving technical problems. I acquired skills in problem solving, listening abilities, conflict handling and customer service.

Organization, patience and multi-tasking abilities were also essential requirements. A key learning point was that, even though this job was outside the area I want to focus on, it gave me the opportunity to know a foreign job market and allowed me to perfect my Portuguese. I was exposed to, and taught how to work effectively and efficiently in, a multicultural environment and also a different country with new languages. On a daily basis, I would assist my manager in overcoming any language barriers and/or cultural differences.

My tenure was based in the Logistics Department, where I was responsible for coordinating and managing delivery notes and transport allocation to ensure the supply chain remained fluid, resulting in an efficient manufacturing and battery delivery to JCI customers. The position required me to forecast the demand weekly and monthly, monitor current processes and assist customers with any needed documentation. I gained important hands-on practical experience from dealing daily, and directly, with the customers / operators/ managers. My superior described me as an efficient and independent problem-solving person, with a capability of quick learning.

When I finished my degree and while looking for a job, I taught three high school students preparing them for their final exams.

During my studies in Bilbao, I worked as a waitress at catering events and concerts; acquiring skills in time management, cash handling and customer service.