I am a recent journalism graduate and communications professional with experience in local and community reporting, social media strategy, and editorial leadership. I value building strong relationships and bring a people-first approach to everything I do, uplifting those around me and fostering collaborative success. I've covered local events, written in-depth community stories, and contributed to high-profile events such as the East Midlands Mayoral Hustings and the BBC Election Debate. In 2023, I launched Lemon Marketing, where I developed campaigns that consistently increased engagement and footfall for clients. I bring initiative, adaptability and a commitment to producing impactful, high-quality work while managing competing priorities.

Carla Dowling

I am a recent journalism graduate and communications professional with experience in local and community reporting, social media strategy, and editorial leadership. I value building strong relationships and bring a people-first approach to everything I do, uplifting those around me and fostering collaborative success. I've covered local events, written in-depth community stories, and contributed to high-profile events such as the East Midlands Mayoral Hustings and the BBC Election Debate. In 2023, I launched Lemon Marketing, where I developed campaigns that consistently increased engagement and footfall for clients. I bring initiative, adaptability and a commitment to producing impactful, high-quality work while managing competing priorities.

Available to hire

I am a recent journalism graduate and communications professional with experience in local and community reporting, social media strategy, and editorial leadership. I value building strong relationships and bring a people-first approach to everything I do, uplifting those around me and fostering collaborative success. I’ve covered local events, written in-depth community stories, and contributed to high-profile events such as the East Midlands Mayoral Hustings and the BBC Election Debate.

In 2023, I launched Lemon Marketing, where I developed campaigns that consistently increased engagement and footfall for clients. I bring initiative, adaptability and a commitment to producing impactful, high-quality work while managing competing priorities.

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Work Experience

Editor and Content Writer at Platform Magazine
June 1, 2025 - August 20, 2025
Led the editorial strategy for Platform Magazine producing editions from scratch and managing a team of writers to maintain high editorial standards. Coordinated and edited feature articles ensuring engaging, accurate, and timely content across print and digital platforms. Collaborated with designers, contributors including BSL contributors, and external stakeholders. Secured sponsorships from local bars to support the magazine. Combined leadership, creativity and strategic planning to deliver compelling, professional publications.
Freelance Journalist at Nottinghamshire Live Newspaper
January 31, 2025 - August 20, 2025
Reported and wrote news articles covering local events and community stories. Conducted interviews, researched and verified information, and worked closely with editors to maintain accuracy and clarity. Wrote the site's highest-performing article of the year on the Nottingham Goose Fair and provided exclusive coverage breaking a local crime story. Developed the ability to meet tight deadlines without compromising quality while writing compelling, impactful stories and using initiative to find angles, sources, and approaches that engaged readers across a range of topics and audiences.
CEO and Founder at Lemon Marketing
June 1, 2023 - Present
Founded Lemon Marketing in 2023, offering tailored social media marketing for small businesses. Oversees all stages of campaign delivery including content creation, strategy, visual production, performance analytics reporting, and client relationship management. Revitalised the Instagram presence of Treehouse Bar & Restaurant in Hessle, doubling follower count and sharply increasing engagement within six weeks leading to a notable increase in footfall. Develops and executes targeted campaigns promoting seasonal events and special offers, while networking with local stakeholders to expand reach and strengthen community connections, resulting in a stronger online presence and more effective social media marketing overall.
Fashion Intern at The Sun - Fabulous Magazine
August 31, 2022 - August 20, 2025
Assisted in curating fashion content and earned two editorial bylines. Supported trend forecasting, research, photoshoots, and social media content creation. Developed skills in creative collaboration, organisation, attention to detail, and adapting quickly to meet tight editorial deadlines. Gained real exposure to the editorial world by meeting deadlines, going the extra mile helping manage events, and contributing creatively under pressure.

Education

BA Journalism at Nottingham Trent University
September 1, 2022 - June 1, 2025
A-Levels at Finchley Catholic High School
January 11, 2030 - August 20, 2025
GCSEs at Finchley Catholic High School
January 11, 2030 - August 20, 2025

Qualifications

NCTJ Gold Standard Diploma
January 11, 2030 - August 20, 2025
Qualified Adobe Premiere Pro and Rush
January 11, 2030 - August 20, 2025

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Professional Services, Retail