Name:

Hannah Woodcock

How long have you been a member of JCI?

I joined in May 2013

How long have you been on the Council Team?

8 months

What is your current role on the council team?

Events & Training Director

What are your hobbies?

I love theatre, and have been involved with a few plays at amateur level, including a Victorian horror in the style of 'The Woman in Black'. It had books flying across the stage, a trap door and blood-curdling screams - what more could you want in a play? I also enjoy hiking, as it combines beautiful scenery and lots of snacks (to keep your energy levels high, of course!).

Why JCI for you?

My first event with JCI was their 2013 Presenter course, and I've never looked back since. You get to work with amazing people who are extremely enthusiastic and actually want to make a difference. Without sounding like a salesperson, the group really does have something for everybody, from international travel, to business networking, to great social events. I've made some life-long friends and learnt countless skills through the organisation. The range of events JCI organises can be once-in-a-lifetime opportunities, or simply push you out of your comfort zone; it's not every day you get a chance to visit the PlayMobil factory, or break an arrow with your neck as part of a trust exercise.

Tell us about your role.

I organise sessions for JCI Sheffield, liaising with the trainers and venue coordinators. Everyone I've contacted has been extremely friendly and supportive of JCI's ethos. I have a beautiful, multi-coloured chart to keep on top of events, of which I'm very proud. I'm even more proud of the variety and quality of events we've hosted so far, and am looking forward to arranging future sessions tailored to our members' goals.

What is your ambition in JCI?

I'd love to take up a more senior position in the future, but would like to gain more experience as a director beforehand.

Proudest JCI moment (so far!)?

Winning 'Most Outstanding New Member in the Yorkshire Region' 2013.

Most embarrassing moment?

Too many moments to list in a single blog post...My friend and I once mistook a Tim Minchin lookalike for the real comedian. The poor man posed in a photo with us, and was very polite when we said we were fans of his work. We deleted the photos as soon as we realised!

What is your occupation?

I'm an editor for a leading greeting cards company. So far, my proudest work is a Christmas card from the dog (lots of tail-waggingly good puns).

Claim to fame?

While stewarding at Leeds Festival, One Direction's Louis Tomlinson asked me how to get to the VIP campsite. Instead of replying with a witty direction-based joke, I shrugged and advised he ask another volunteer as I hadn't a clue. Sorry Louis!

What advice would you give to someone thinking of joining their local JCI council team?

Go for it! You'll get all the training and support you could hope for, so don't worry if you feel inexperienced - the key to being a great director is enthusiasm. It's brilliant for personal development, looks fantastic on your resume, and you can make a real difference in your community.

Follow Hannah on twitter or drop her an email.

If you are interested in joining the 2015 JCI Sheffield Council Team, please get in touch with Mark Smith, 2014 Deputy President.