Veronika is a Project Manager of the Advisory Team at the Innovation in Politics Institute.
How would you describe your professional journey so far? What is your background, and what sparked your interest in currently working to support political innovation?
What truly sparked my interest in supporting political innovation was the realisation of its impact on shaping the future.
As a political consultant, I focused on campaign management and connecting with voters. The potential of digital tools for engaging supporters intrigued me, leading me to step into the role of Director of Strategic Partnerships at a campaign software company. There, I worked closely with campaigns across EMEA and the USA, helping them integrate the tool seamlessly into their strategies and developing the tool at the same time.
What’s your favourite part of your job? Why is that?
Facilitating innovative solutions in politics and empowering change-makers for stronger democracies.
What is your first memory of politics?
During my one-year exchange program in South Africa, a decade after the end of apartheid. Observing the significance of conflict transformation and its enduring consequences in the post-apartheid era, I was inspired to pursue studies in Peace and Conflict to better comprehend the dynamics of political change.
What is something or someone that deeply impacted the way you think about societal change?
Marshall Ganz – his insights reinforced the idea that true change comes from organising people to engage, advocate, and collectively pursue structural transformations.
Name a must-read political book.
“Rules for Radicals: A Pragmatic Primer for Realistic Radicals” by Saul D. Alinsky. It sheds light on effective ways of grassroots activism to bring people together and create meaningful change through thoughtful, non-violent approaches.
Which historical figure would you most like to meet? What would you ask them?
Rosa Parks, what was going through your mind when you refused to give up your bus seat, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott?
What’s one thing you’re learning now, and why is it important?
Deep into the understanding of technology and best practices to facilitate supporter recruitment and engagement. In a digital age, mastering these tools is crucial for effective political outreach and building sustained connections with supporters.
Best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve ever received is to “nurture curiosity.” This advice encourages me to approach challenges and opportunities with an open mind, continually seeking to learn and explore new perspectives.
