Stepping into governance with Divaani, Flex CoSec and The Salvation Army

Meet Divaani Gunalingam, a recent graduate who discovered the world of governance through the Flex CoSec programme.

With no prior knowledge of company secretarial work, Divaani quickly embraced the opportunity to explore a new and dynamic career path. Through hands-on experience supporting committees and senior leadership teams, she gained valuable insight into how organisations operate strategically. Alongside her placement at The Salvation Army, she has been studying for the CGI exams, deepening her understanding of governance in practice. In this case study, Divaani reflects on her unexpected journey, the highlights of her placement, and how Flex has supported her career growth.

What did your personal journey into the area of governance look like?

I was introduced to the world of governance through Flex, where I first learned what it really means. I stumbled upon this career path by chance, and I’m so glad I did. Getting to experience the behind-the-scenes of running and managing a charity is something I never imagined I’d be part of.

Do you feel this career path is accessible enough for aspiring professionals?

What I’ve realised is that this career path isn’t very well-known or accessible. Before joining the programme, I didn’t know what a company secretary was, and I know many others are in the same position. That’s why the work Flex is doing is so important in raising awareness and opening up this field to more aspiring professionals.

Can you talk to us about the kind of work you’ve been doing at The Salvation Army, and what the highlights of your placement have been?

The work I’ve been involved in has been hands-on and particularly interesting. I’ve had the opportunity to support committees like Property and Audit, and be part of the Operational Board. It has been fascinating to see how the company operates at a strategic level and to listen in on key leadership discussions. One of the highlights has definitely been engaging with senior figures like department heads. It’s a bit daunting at first, but it was such a valuable and unique experience at this stage of my career.

Please can you tell us about your experience of studying for the CGI examinations?

Studying for the CGI exams has been challenging, especially now as exams approach, but incredibly insightful. A lot of the content aligns with the work I’ve done during my placement, which has helped deepen my understanding and made both the studying and the day-to-day work more meaningful.

How has Flex supported you through this programme? And how has this opportunity supported you with your long-term career goals?

Flex has been hugely supportive throughout the programme. As a recent graduate, being trusted with high-profile, meaningful work so early in my career has been an amazing opportunity—and one that has definitely helped kick-start my long-term career goals.

And finally... Where do you see your career heading in the future following Flex CoSec?

Following my time with Flex Cosec, I see myself continuing to develop within the company secretarial field, especially in areas like board and committee support. I’ve really enjoyed being part of meeting preparation and seeing how governance operates in practice. It has shown me that this is an area where I’d like to build expertise and take on more responsibility over time.