My London: Social media manager Jolina Löfquist
Name: Jolina Löfquist
Work: Social Media Manager at Satigo
Living: Outskirts of North London, Cuffley
Time in London: 1 year
Instagram: @jolinamirabelle
Who is Jolina?
I am a 22-year-old go-getter from Åhus who so far, has always been on an adventure! I spent
some of my childhood years in Tanzania with my musician parents and have been in
constant movement ever since. I went dancing and music school for 9 years in Sweden before becoming a flight attendant based in Copenhagen. I then took the opportunity to move to South Africa and experience the magic of Cape Town! Following another move, this time to Barcelona, in 2019, I started working as a translator, and now I work as a social media manager within technology in London. I love reptiles, and naturally (coming from Åhus), I am infatuated by the ocean. Basketball and longboarding bring me joy, and I breathe everything creative. My life is a beautiful, chaotic mess!
What do you do for a living?
I work as a Social Media Manager for a global technology/cybersecurity company called SATIGO with headquarters in the heart of London. Our mission is to pioneer workforce solutions as trusted advisors to our clients. In my role, whether it’s a video, interview or article, my goal is to create inspiring content that brings people together as a community and makes you feel something. In my eyes, what separates the good social content from great social content, is the willingness to take risks and push the envelope. I often see my office in movies and on TV, and I never get used to it! I get excited every time.
Where do you live?
I live in the outskirts of North London – In a small village called Cuffley! Although I love the buzz of central London, I have always needed nature close by to feel at peace. Cuffley has gorgeous nature and surroundings. Considering I work in the heart of London, I’d say I get the best of both worlds!
How did your time in London start?
After meeting my boyfriend in Valencia, we travelled a lot before deciding to settle in London in December last year, right before the pandemic induced global chaos started! Though I had spent a lot of time here before 2020, this year has been much quieter than expected, and I haven’t been experiencing as much as I’d have liked to – but better days are coming, and the opportunities here are never-ending. London has always been in my sight when it comes to a career. The vibe lights a creative spark in me!
Jolina with one of the family-snakes
Tell us more about your love for reptiles:
It began when my family moved to Tanzania when I was about 6 years old – we actually had all sorts of snakes, lizards and spiders in our garden, sometimes we’d find tarantulas inside! My brother and I had always loved dinosaurs, and reptiles in my mind are kind of like dinosaurs, especially alligators and crocodiles – so instead of being scared of them, I was just amazed by them. Since then, my family and I have taken in some reptiles that need re-homing as they cant be released in the wild and survive in climates like Sweden and England. Ideally, all reptiles should live in their natural habitat. But if someone is contemplating releasing one into the wild- I’d rather take it in and “save” it if I can.
Where do you wish to be in 10 years?
I am very happy with where I am at right now, but eventually, I would love to make more of an impact and push positive change in the world through content creation. I am passionate about environmental protection and endangered species. I visualize myself settled with a flexible job that allows me to continue to adventure, promote a better future for all and live out my full potential. Ideally, in 10 years I’ll have a house in Cape Town. My favourite place in the world!
What is the hardest part about starting a life in England?
I hate driving in the UK – I love to drive in Sweden, but it’s something I can’t get used to over here, particularly in Central London! Overall, in such a big city, keeping up with London’s fast-paced social world can be tough. Especially when you are restricted. 2020, ey? Do what feels good and don’t push yourself too much trying to keep up. If outside validation in today’s world is your only source of nourishment, you will hunger for the rest of your life.
At the National Gallery of Art
Mention three things that you cannot miss when visiting London:
– Gigs! Music! London is arguably the world’s capital of great music, and the talent is never-ending
– Museums – London has a wide selection, like the National Art Gallery and the Tate Modern. Experience art from Da Vinci, Rubens, Picasso, Mondrian, Monet and Van Gogh!
– Winter Wonderland – it is pure bliss at night time if you’re a sucker for theme parks like me
…and what would you avoid?
Definitely Oxford Street and Piccadilly Circus. I don’t understand the hype! Oxford street’s selection of stores is basically the same as what you find at home? And Piccadilly – it’s just… a square with some big advertising boards? Pernilla Wahlgren set my expectations way too high! Shame, haha.
Play with the thought that you are eating out for an entire day. Where do you go for brunch/lunch/Fika/dinner?
Don’t even have to think twice!
Breakfast at Bistrotheque – the atmosphere and food are 10/10, minimalistic and authentic.
Lunch at Coq D’argent – a rooftop terrace with stunning views, perfect location for lunchtime business meetings or simply just leisure! If you like Indian – do not miss Dishoom.
Fika: Can I say Scandi Kitchen in Marylebone? Nothing like a Swedish coffee and pastry. People are going to laugh at me for this but – If you haven’t been to London, try Gregg’s! It’s a British classic. Their pastries are sick – what can I say haha! The ultimate grab ‘n go.
Dinner at Quaglino’s – live modern and jazz tunes, extraordinary food and drinks! When you’re done with dinner, they open up a small dance floor. Probably been there too much, but why change a winning strategy? Can’t go wrong.
Breakfast at Bistrotheque
Where is the best shopping in London?
Definitely Soho. I live for small authentic, edgy brands – and Soho delivers. Have a stroll around, experience new brands and grab a beer or an old fashioned in one of the pubs. You can get some cool vintage pieces in Soho as well. Soho is filled with hidden treasures!!
Your best London memory of all times?
The Brits certainly know how to enjoy a drink and a good time. I have had lots of great nights getting dressed up, going to great restaurants and dancing to live music until my feet hurt. I love fashion, and the opportunity to go to different events to connect with new people has been great. London does not play around when it comes to extravagant fashion events. I’m telling you!!
Describe the perfect night out in the city:
Start with some smoking drinks at The Alchemist – the whole service is an experience in itself! Have a skyline dinner at Sushi Samba, the best sushi I have ever had, before moving on to my favourite hidden gem Barts, a speakeasy-style bar hidden behind a wall inside a hotel, serving exceptional cocktails and late-night entertainment with a 1920’s glamour and hedonistic atmosphere. I’m not one for clubbing – but if you have to – Cirque delivers the appropriate level of madness.
