[REAL LIFE STORIES] F2F team leader Ishaa on leadership, resilience, and making a difference door by door

At Gather Campaigns, our fundraisers come from all kinds of backgrounds, but they all share a passion for connecting with people and making a real impact. We recently sat down with Ishaa Tamba, a Team Leader based in Manchester, to learn about her journey into face-to-face fundraising, what keeps her motivated, and the moments that have stayed with her.

Ishaa’s story shows us that face-to-face fundraising is about more than just conversations – it’s about connection, growth, and making a difference, one interaction at a time.

Ishaa – F2F Team Leader

Can you tell us a bit about your role at Gather Campaigns?

I’m currently a Team Leader, so I’m in a leadership phase where I train and guide teams while working towards a management position. I’ve been with Gather for about a year and a half, and during that time I’ve worked across both residential fundraising and events. Most of my work is door-to-door fundraising, but I’ve also been involved in campaigns like Our Future Health, which is in partnership with the NHS.

What initially drew you to face-to-face fundraising?

This was actually my first experience in the industry. Before this, I was doing something completely different. What attracted me was the opportunity to build skills, not just professionally but personally as well. I wanted something outside the typical office environment, something more dynamic and challenging. Face-to-face fundraising gives you that. Every day is different, and you are constantly learning.

You’ve had quite an international background. Has that influenced your work?

Definitely. I was born in The Gambia, raised in Italy, and later moved to the UK. That experience has made it easier for me to connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds. In this job, you meet all kinds of people every day, so being able to relate and communicate with a wide range of individuals is a big advantage.

What campaigns have you been most involved in?

A big one for our office has been Oxfam. It’s an incredible charity doing vital work around the world, from emergency aid to tackling poverty and supporting sustainable development. Knowing the scale of their impact makes the work feel even more meaningful, especially in times of global crisis.

What do you enjoy most about face-to-face fundraising?

One of the best things is the variety. No two days are the same. You meet different people, hear different stories, and experience new situations all the time. It keeps things exciting.

Another big factor is the personal development. This job builds your confidence, communication skills, and resilience. Those are skills that help not just in your career, but in your everyday life and relationships.

And finally, it’s the impact. You’re not just having conversations, you are making a difference. Whether it’s brightening someone’s day or helping raise funds for people in need, you know your work matters.

Has there been a standout moment in your time with Gather?

There have been many, but one really stayed with me. I met a doctor who had come from Palestine during a time of crisis. She told me that she had personally received support from Oxfam while working in a hospital there. Hearing that directly from someone who had experienced it firsthand was incredibly powerful. It reminded me that what we do has a real, tangible impact on people’s lives.

What keeps you going on tougher days?

Rejection is part of the job, and there are days when the weather is bad or people are not interested. But I remind myself why I’m doing this. I think about the people who rely on the support we help provide.

Also, over time, you build resilience. You learn not to take rejection personally. Instead, you focus on finding the right conversations and the right people. That mindset makes a huge difference.

What would you say to someone considering a career in face-to-face fundraising?

Just do it. There’s so much to gain from the experience. You develop valuable skills, meet incredible people, and make a real impact. A lot of people think it might be intimidating, but most people are kind and open to conversation. If you approach it with the right attitude, it can be a very rewarding experience.

How have your friends and family reacted to your work?

At first, my mum was a bit worried. She was concerned about me being out knocking on doors. But once she understood how it works, that we operate in teams and in safe environments, she became very supportive.

Fundraising in Manchester

Now she’s actually very proud. She even told me about someone who knocked on her door and said she signed up partly because her daughter does similar work. It’s funny how things come full circle.

What has this job taught you about people?

It’s taught me that people are generally good. Even if someone says no, it doesn’t mean they don’t care. Sometimes they just can’t help at that moment.

I remember speaking to someone on their doorstep who initially seemed quite dismissive, but moments later she came to find me to apologise and explained she had just received difficult news about her family. Moments like that remind you not to take things personally and to approach every interaction with empathy.

What’s next for you?

My goal is to move into management and build a strong team of fundraisers who can represent amazing charities and make a positive impact. For me, it’s about growing as a leader while continuing to contribute to something meaningful.

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Ishaa’s passion and commitment truly capture the spirit of face-to-face fundraising. Inspired by her journey? Join Gather Campaigns and start making a difference yourself. Get in touch with us to explore a rewarding career in F2F fundraising