Gef’s 30 Under 30 Winners: Q&A with Jasmine Cowin

Ten categories. Thirty young visionaries making their mark on the Isle of Man. Introducing the all-new #Gef30Under30 winners: the next generation of our island’s leaders.

The Stonehage Fleming Collaboration winners work within their fields to help the island’s most vulnerable people, doing incredible things to serve those in need.

What is your name?

Jasmine Cowin, age 25.

Job title or role in the community?

External Relations Executive Officer at the Cabinet Office, Isle of Man Government.

How did you start your career or role in the community?

I started work in the Cabinet Office in the summer of 2021. I found my job through the Isle of Man Government’s Talent Pool, which was perfect for me, as I had no idea what I wanted to do after studying for my BSc and Masters in International Development and Security in South Wales. Since starting in the office, I’ve worked my way up and I have played an active role in several really exciting and meaningful projects, such as the British-Irish Council Summit and providing administration for the island’s International Development budget. Most recently, I have worked on the development of the Isle of Man Homes for Ukraine Scheme and the future of the island’s refugee policy.

Have you experienced any hurdles in your career or community efforts and if so, how did you overcome them?

My biggest hurdle has definitely been my self-confidence. I’ve been lucky enough to be surrounded by a super supportive and encouraging team who have always celebrated my small wins as much as the bigger wins. I have put in the hard work and now my voice is trusted and heard, which has resulted in me being a far more confident woman in the workplace than I ever could have wished for a few years ago. My advice would be to surround yourself with great people who will look out for you.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

What is meant for you won’t pass you by. I am a true believer that if you seek out opportunities, the rewards will find you.

What do you wish you knew when you were getting started in your career?

– You’re not expected to know everything
– Always recognise the importance in diversity of opinion
– If you don’t know, ask someone who does
– Trying and failing is better than not trying at all
– Voice your opinion
– Learn to like coffee NOW, you will need it

What are your plans for the future?

I hope to always enjoy my work as much as I do now. I would love to continue working with the third sector, internationally and on the Isle of Man.

What, for you, are the benefits of staying on or moving back to the island for young people under 30?

The Isle of Man is a truly great place to live and work. I lived in South Wales and Oxfordshire for 4 years. What I thought my life could be by returning to the Isle of Man when I was at University is entirely different to what my life is like now. I have embraced all of what the island can offer, and it has taken time to feel this way, but now I am settled now. I couldn’t think of a better place to kick start my career and future surrounded by my amazing family and friends. The GEF 30 under 30 list is a testament to how nurturing the island can be to support you to succeed.

What does being a Gef 30 Under 30 winner mean to you?

Being named a Gef 30 under 30 is a real honour, especially when I look at all the other amazing winners and all that they are achieving. To be named a winner feels like recognition for years of hard work and committing myself to always doing my best.