After a few weeks living in London, I’ve come to learn so much more about the city and about myself! All of the awesome experiences I’ve had have been awesome, and going on adventures in and around the British Isles has been a dream come true!
My internship at NEMI Teas has been going just as well! I’ve had a great time getting to know my coworkers and the type of work I’ll be involved in, with the tea industry being “steeped” in tradition and British culture for hundreds of years. As I’m learning, although my industry is old and full of heritage, NEMI Teas takes a new and novel approach to the business. The company places an extreme emphasis on bringing sustainable tea to the people of London and the world. And did I mention they’re a Non-Profit using their proceeds to help Immigrants to Britain get back on their feet and integrate into British Society and the broader cultural context? What NEMI is doing well is taking a richly important industry and making it not only culturally relevant with sustainability initiatives to help protect the planet, but also their mission of helping immigrants who have been devastated by conflict, political unrest, or a number of other things a second chance in one of the greatest cities in the world.
In the Industry of tea, maintaining relationships with buyers and suppliers is critical. Because tea is a commodity that mostly comes from other parts of the world to Britain, the importance of making sure that supply-chain functionality is at it’s peak is paramount. Having the ability to be able to quickly adapt to ever-changing situations in many countries where tea is sourced is important as well. If there is a scenario where something happens between you and a supplier and that route is no longer viable, having backups and other relationships already in place in case of a problem gives bargaining power and leverage to go a different direction if needed. It’s also important to understanding the context of these situations, which is why I am very fortunate to have context as my number one Clifton Strength!
The dynamics of professional work culture are drastically different here than in the U.S. For example, when the work day is done, it’s done. There’s no late-night emails or calls after hours, when you’re off the clock, you’re off the clock. Also, work banter is very common here, and coworkers taking a personal interest in your life and what you do is very fun and refreshing compared to some companies in the U.S.
That’s all for now! I can’t wait to continue updating about my time in London. As always, H2P!
