In our latest interview, we caught up with Sarah Birkenhead, one of the recent interns at the Visual Artists Association (VAA). Sarah shared her experience working behind the scenes at the VAA, offering insights into her internship journey, the marketing skills she developed, and how the role has influenced her own career aspirations in the creative industry.
Sarah Birkenhead, a 2024 Business Management BA graduate from the University of Chester’s Shrewsbury campus, has long had a passion for marketing and entrepreneurship. Now specialising in both areas, she has a particular interest in social media marketing and how it connects brands with their audiences in creative, authentic ways. Outside of her professional life, Sarah lives with her daughter Mollie, their dog Chester- named in honour of her university and their four beloved cats, making for a lively and love-filled home.
What initially attracted you to apply for an internship with the VAA?
I’ve always had a deep love for art, from trying to sell my “masterpieces” on my mum’s market stall to studying art as a GCSE. Art has always been a part of my life in one way or another. The opportunity to combine my passion for art with my love for marketing was exciting and the perfect fit for me.
Can you describe a typical day during your internship and the kind of tasks you were involved in?
Apart from working with an amazing team every day, a typical day involves unleashing my creativity by writing blog posts, curating social media campaigns, SEO work, and prospecting for all the fantastic art prizes the VAA has been running during my time here.
Read the full blog here:
Artists with ADHD: Thrive Creatively in a Neurotypical World
What skills have you developed or strengthened during your time at the VAA?
I’ve strengthened my skills here at the VAA. The marketing industry moves at lightning speed, so I’ve had to learn to use the latest CMS platforms and AI technology, while also applying the knowledge I gained during my studies to real-life projects. Hannah and Amy in the marketing team have been fountains of knowledge and incredibly supportive – working with them has been an amazing experience.
What inspired you to choose Business Management as your degree subject?
Business management and marketing have been consistent themes throughout my life. After qualifying as a beauty therapist, I found I didn’t quite fit in that world. My colleagues would talk about Love Island, while I was more interested in discussing the latest episode of Dragons’ Den. That’s when I knew I needed to find my “people.”
Did you always know you wanted to go into marketing, or did that interest develop over time?
Marketing has always drawn me in. After having my daughter and staying home with her, I decided to start a mummy blog, which led me to teach myself HTML coding (an interesting experience!). Through that, I worked with companies like Calpol and Plum baby food, and that’s when I really got hooked. Before university, I was helping friends with their companies’ social media strategies, and eventually, I decided to take the plunge and pursue a career in marketing that I truly adore.
Marketing is never stagnant; it’s always evolving and changing, which keeps it fresh and exciting. There’s always something new to learn, and the possibilities are endless in this field.
Who or what has been the biggest influence on your personal and professional journey so far?
I draw inspiration from people who’ve built success from the ground up. Duncan Bannatyne is a huge influence for me. His entrepreneurial journey started with buying an ice cream van for £450 and look at where he is now! It shows that anything is possible if you have enough passion and drive.
Have you faced any significant challenges along the way, and how have they shaped you?
Two months into my first year at university, we lost my daughter’s father. Grieving while studying and raising a child tested every part of me. There were days when grief felt heavier than anything else and giving up would’ve been the easier option. But I pushed through, staying focused on my end goal – a better life for myself and my daughter, and making Rob proud. He wouldn’t have wanted me to give up on myself, so I didn’t. That made my graduation even more monumental.
What are you most proud of achieving, either personally or academically?
I’m most proud of my strength and determination. I never gave up and had the courage to chase my dreams. Ultimately, it made me a stronger person. I have an amazing daughter who I’m incredibly proud of and have finally found my happy place in the world of marketing.
What have you learned about yourself while working in this role?
This internship has confirmed that it wasn’t all for nothing. I’ve found an industry filled with like-minded people, and working with such empowering individuals every day has been a true pleasure. My time at VAA has taught me to let go of imposter syndrome – I am good at what I do. It has also shown me that it’s possible to work in a team where everyone uplifts and supports each other wholeheartedly.
At the VAA, we’re proud to have supported Sarah’s journey and can’t wait to see where her creativity takes her next. Whether in marketing or exploring new paths within the creative industries, Sarah is a great example of how passion and curiosity can open doors to exciting opportunities.
Check out more of the blogs that Sarah has written during her VAA internship:
Meet the Judges For The VAA Artist of the Year 2025
Which Artist Award Is Right For You?
