about me
I'm Sharmila Meadows, a British freelance writer, journalist and copy editor from London, England, where I still live and work.
After graduating in European History and French (Hons) Language, I spent two decades as a policy adviser to the UK Government in Westminster, working on a range of policies and serving as private secretary to three Government Ministers in the House of Lords. I've also had spells living and working in France, New Zealand and Australia - and indeed, France and the Commonwealth remain close to my heart.
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Writing has been the recurring theme of my career path. It was the privilege of my life to serve the UK Government and it taught me to write accurate, punchy yet engaging prose in diverse formats for very different purposes.
I wrote briefing that enabled Ministers to take decisions and content that could withstand the scrutiny and theatre of Parliament, hold credibility with sector experts or meet the needs of the general public. In particular, I loved the challenge of writing speeches for Parliament and crafting compelling narrative on sensitive, "hard to sell" policy.
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My writing is shaped by my passions for cricket, faith and politics and my connections to France and the Commonwealth. Being British of Sri Lankan heritage, I jest that tea and cricket were guaranteed passions and through the summer, you will find me at the Kennington Oval.
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My Christian faith infuses my writing whether on politics, writing for Bible Society or through The Mission Post Blog and my devotional book Daily Despatch. I hope to create places of encounter between a reader and Scripture: places that God inhabits and where he speaks.
When I left Government to embark on this freelance journey, a wise vicar advised me to follow the example of St Colomba: simply get in the boat, but give God the oars. It's been an adventure ever since! Thank you for dipping your toes in the water with me.
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"Sharmila writes from the heart, and a deep personal relationship with God. I find her posts clearly written, insightful and challenging. They often bring a new perspective, which encourages further reflection."
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The Reverend Mark Williams,
Anglican Vicar
"The write up beautifully done with the professional touch, which can only come with huge experience."
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Dr Jay Arnold, NHS Consultant Gastroenterolgist & Charity Trustee, Friends of Manipay Hospital