Staff Showcase – Ben Shapiro

Welcome to our first Faith & Belief Forum Staff Showcase!

Each week we’ll highlight those behind the scenes of our organisation, get to know them better and discover exactly why they like to support interfaith work.

This week we meet Ben Shapiro, who works on the ParliaMentors leadership programme, with a special focus on the Alumni Network.

Your name and Job title:  

Ben Shapiro, Programmes Officer – ParliaMentors 

What made you initially interested in interfaith work? 

It felt very natural to be around people of different faiths and beliefs, and then when that wasn’t the case, mainly at university I felt motivated to go and seek out interfaith activities and get involved. 

Why do you feel interfaith work is still required in our world? What motivates you?  

There are so many places in the UK and worldwide, where the opportunities for people to meet, discuss and understand one another in a well facilitated space are rare. Diversity is another driver – diverse areas are no guarantee that people are getting know each other rather than just living nearby.

How did you first hear about F&BF? 

From an email from Reform Judaism!

How would you explain what you do to someone completely unfamiliar with our work, and what is your favourite aspect of your job? 

I work with emerging leaders to develop their interfaith, leadership and political skills so they can solve challenges around the country while being mentored by MPs, and work on bigger problems as they continue in the leadership journeys.

What didn’t you realise about interfaith until working at F&BF?

How many people don’t get an opportunity to meet, chat and befriend those from other backgrounds. 

What are you most proud of during your time here at F&BF?

Recruiting new MPs as mentors for the Parliamentors programme each year. We’ve had nearly 70 amazing parliament members involved thoughout the years – including current Labour leader Keir Starmer! 

What floats your boat outside of work?

I like to read, I run one book club with a friend and I am part of another one. 

Thanks Ben! check in with us next week for our next staff showcase.