At DSF we are lucky enough to have some very talented MCs who volunteer their time at our events, bringing their personality, warmth and expertise to the room. During our festivals, our MCs take centre stage, offering a helping hand to our speakers and keeping the show going both on and off stage. This interview provides a glimpse into the personal side of our MCs within our expanding community. Dive into the brief interview below!
A bit about Arzaq:
Arzaq is a Chevening Alumna and a growing Data scientist with extensive former diverse experience in project management, investment, and management. She currently works as a Projects Coordinator at a local charity while she builds on her experience as a Data Scientist. She has been volunteering for more than 3 years with different organizations and has proven skills in communications, leadership, and networking. She is known for her determination, achieving objectives, and a persistent desire to develop and impact.
When did you MC for DSF?
I am honored to be one of the DSF Oktoberfest 2023 MCs.
How many times have you been an MC and from what year?
I was an MC for the first time in the DSF Oktoberfest 2023 and looking forward to the upcoming opportunity in MayDay 2024.
Why did you want to volunteer as an MC with DSF?
I heard about the DSF when I was still a DS postgrad student and I really enjoyed attending the Mainstage 2022 event. The vibes, the people, and the data experience encouraged me to volunteer. So, I volunteered, not as an MC, on MayDay 2023. The experience was great and I wanted to utilize my presentation skills as well in this incredible event, so I volunteered as an MC in Oktoberfest 2023. I also expressed interest to continue being an MC for MayDay 2024 and am already excited to relive the experience and meet new people to inspire me in my journey to be a Data Scientist.
What is your favourite thing about being an MC?
I can be an attendee to meet the speakers, organizers, volunteers, and other experts of the data field, but being an MC is just different. Being close to the stage and sensing the preps vibes, excitement, stress, confidence…etc is another part of the experience and I am grateful that I have the opportunity as an MC to enjoy it. This shall prepare me for that time in the future when I am next on stage, fingers crossed!
What advice would you give other people looking to MC at an event?
Just be confident, ask if you need to, try to make the most out of it, support your speakers, own the room, and enjoy your time along the process.
What is next for you?
I am determined to shift my career to a Data Scientist. I accomplished the first step by completing my MSc in Data Science and Analytics and I have been developing my skills to join the field. My goal is to land the Data Scientist role to launch my Data Science career and live my passion!
Any final words?
I am just grateful for the chance of being a part of this community. DSF has everything any person, who is ambitious and has passion for data and the new world of tech, is looking for. Thank you to all the organisers, sponsors, and speakers who contribute to DSF’s success.
Thank you to all our wonderful volunteers for taking part in our MC Spotlight!
Want to become a DSF MC? Apply here!