Sonya Trivedy, fundraising director at Terrence Higgins Trust, chats about biscuits in Guyana, bravery in Peru, and tackling HIV here in the UK

How and why did you get into the voluntary sector?

When I was growing up my uncle was always a huge inspiration, telling me stories of his work at Oxfam and Save the Children. Knowing I wanted to join the sector too, following a stint in recruitment I decided to volunteer, and was lucky enough to be offered an opportunity with the wonderful Jon Thomson (@jtchangingbiz) when he was at Help the Aged.

What are the most important things you've learned in your fundraising career?

Analysis and insight are key to successful fundraising. If you don’t know why things are working or indeed failing or what donors genuinely want you can’t be strategic. Also, never be afraid to ask for help. It’s amazing what others have to offer and their generosity.

What do you get up to in your spare time?

I’ll be honest, my 4-year-old twin boys keep me pretty busy. But on the odd occasion where I have a spare minute or two, I either get out my sewing machine or one of my upholstery projects.

Who is your role model/inspiration, and why?

I remember my mum telling me about the time my grandma begged on the streets in Guyana, and would come home with just a biscuit, which she would break in two for my mum and her brother to share. My mum has taken all her life experiences, good and bad, to create wonderful experiences for everyone around her. She is definitely my hero.

What is the most out-of-the-ordinary thing you've ever done?

When I was at EveryChild I was privileged to visit some of the services made possible by our donors. In particular, I met two incredible child protection volunteers in Peru who tackle violence in the home, in the face of a lot of resistance. They talked about how they had been beaten by the police – and yet they don’t let this deter them. They have gone on to help so many children and families. At the end of our meeting they thanked me for raising money. The lump in my throat was huge, as these are some of the bravest women I’ve ever had the honour to meet.

What's been the best moment of your career?

Winning £2.25million for a new digital service supporting people living with HIV was fantastic. The online tool, myHIV, is now used by over 10,000 people living with HIV and provides access to information, advice, online counselling and importantly a chance to meet other people living with the condition.

What do you love most about your job?

Every day I get to work with hugely talented and passionate people. In particular, the fundraisers I work with at Terrence Higgins Trust are exceptional

What's the most exciting new thing your organisation has coming up?

We are currently working on our new strategy. For the first time within the UK, we have the chance to stop HIV in its tracks. We are working on a new fundraising strategy to ensure the fight against HIV in the UK can be won.

Which three people, living or dead, would you invite to your ideal dinner party, and why?

Stephen Fry, Tracey Emin and David Walliams. Okay, I’m cheating. But, as big supporters of Terrence Higgins Trust, I know these three are among the best guests you can have at any dinner party.