I graduated with an economics degree from a top London university and began my career as a Financial Analyst for a Real Estate Finance firm in the city until I was made redundant due to internal structural changes as a result of the pandemic. I found it incredibly difficult to find job openings during the national lockdown and received almost no response or feedback from any companies I made applications to. I was fortunate to come across Making The Leap while searching for online opportunities during the lockdown and was introduced to their mission by Jamal. I took part in the Virtual ACE workshop over Zoom in a cohort of around 10 associates in similar situations to me which ended up becoming a big turning point in my job search. The workshop activities helped me build confidence with public speaking, refine my presentation skills, improve my interview technique and learn how to effectively network with professionals and leverage these relationships to advance my career. These skills were vital in helping me secure a position within two months of completing the ACE workshop for which I am incredibly grateful, as well as the invaluable support and advice I received from Natalie and Krupa during and after the workshop.

Our December 2020 Cohort on a virtual workshop session with volunteers from HSBC.

I am now working in my dream role as a Trading Analyst for a global Asset Management firm with over $10bn Assets Under Management specialising in the blockchain industry. I couldn’t be any happier with the way things have turned out and I’m so grateful to everyone that has played a part in my journey to this stage.

My advice for any young people with the opportunity of joining MTL is to not doubt the process and just give it a go. At first, I was somewhat hesitant as I thought I was already highly educated and trained so there was little extra help they could provide, but there are always areas in which you can improve and MTL will help guide you in the right direction. I would highly recommend anyone that has been struggling to find or make successful applications for work opportunities to join Making The Leap.

By Cameron.