New Housing Officer: Daniela Avila
Tell us about yourself. My name is Daniela Ordonez Avila, and I am excited to introduce myself to all of you. With a background deeply rooted in both London and Colombia, I bring a diverse perspective to our team.
Why did you pick a career in Housing? I began my journey in the housing sector as a Customer Services Officer at Pinnacle Group, collaborating closely with Newham Council starting in 2021. What drew me to housing, beyond the practical aspects, is the chance to be a positive force in people's lives. Being part of their journey to find a home where they feel secure, comfortable, and supported is incredibly rewarding. Housing isn't just about providing shelter; it's about creating vibrant, inclusive communities where individuals can thrive. I'm passionate about making a difference, no matter how small, and housing allows me to do that every day.
Describe a typical day at work: A regular day in housing involves lots of tasks to make sure our residents feel good and safe in their homes. First thing, I check messages to sort out any urgent questions or problems. During the day, I look at our properties to see if everything's okay and fix anything broken, like pipes or lights, to keep everything nice for our residents. A big part of my day is talking to tenants, helping them with rent stuff or telling them about local goings on. It's important they know we're here to help. Every day has its challenges, but knowing we're making life better for our residents and keeping our community strong makes it all worth it.
You’re having a dinner party and you can invite four famous people, who are they and what’s cooking?
Michelle Obama: She's inspiring, articulate, and has a wealth of experience. I'd love to chat with her about her initiatives and life after the White House.
David Attenborough: His passion for nature and conservation is remarkable. I'd be eager to hear his stories and insights into the natural world.
Elon Musk: He's a visionary entrepreneur and innovator. It would be fascinating to discuss his ideas about technology, space exploration, and the future of humanity.
Emma Watson: She's not only a talented actress but also a vocal advocate for gender equality and education. I'd be interested to hear about her experiences in the film industry and her activism work.
As for the menu, I'd opt for a diverse and flavourful selection to cater to everyone's tastes:
Starter: A fresh and vibrant salad with mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette.
Main Course: Grilled salmon served with a side of roasted vegetables and wild rice pilaf.
Dessert: Decadent chocolate lava cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Beverages: A selection of fine wines and sparkling water with lemon.Favourite local hangouts? Any Colombian restaurant. It's where I feel closest to home, surrounded by the flavours and atmosphere that remind me of Colombia. Whether it's for a full meal or just a small bite, I enjoy indulging in Colombian cuisine. The rich and vibrant flavours of Colombian food hold a special place in my heart, making it my top choice for a cozy and comforting dining experience.
Best holiday you’ve been on? My favourite holiday destination would undoubtedly be Colombia. It holds a special place in my heart because of the rich experiences I've had there, the opportunity to be close to family, and the deep connection to my culture. From the delicious food to the vibrant atmosphere, Colombia offers a unique and unforgettable experience every time I visit. Italy comes in as a close second. I've had the pleasure of visiting three times, and each visit has been nothing short of magical. Italian cuisine, especially pasta, holds a special allure for me, and Italy provides the perfect setting to indulge in my love for pasta while exploring its beautiful cities and landscapes.
