Meet the team: Introducing Frauke

Frauke has been working with Wick Award since April 2023, as part of her MA Applied Anthropology and Community Development at Goldsmiths. Her previous placements have been with other community projects in Hackney at Shoreditch Trust and Hackney Marsh Partnership.

What is applied anthropology and community development?

In applied anthropology we are looking at contemporary social issues, which means we look at all the things that affect people's lives today. This includes gender, sexuality, race, class and much more. It is fundamentally a study about people and making sure that we treat everyone fairly, with respect, equally and with equity. We learn how to conduct ethical research and look at best ways to support communities to live a good life.

What have you discovered about Hackney Wick people while you have been working with Wick Award?

Hackney people are a very mixed bunch and come from all walks of life. Each has a unique and fascinating story to tell. I am struck how they look after each other, help each other independent from their background they all come together to enjoy a good meal (and some extra gravy).

Where is your favourite place in Hackney Wick? What makes it special?

There are many places I love in Hackney Wick, including its green spaces such as Mabley Green. Having previously worked in theatre for 20 years I have a special soft spot for the Yard Theatre - an amazing team that creates and produces cutting edge and exciting theatre - which is also affordable in a really cool space. Since working with the Wick Award I have also come to love all the community halls in the Wick - big shoutout to Gascoyne 1 and 2 and the hall at St Marys of Eton.

If you had a summer afternoon free in Hackney Wick what would you do?

I would probably have a picnic in Mabley Green, go for a stroll on the river Lea and end up seeing a show at the Yard Theatre - perfect!

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