Farhad Hussain, who grew up in Tower Hamlets, was an Eagles on ELBA’s Eagles Graduate recruitment programme, who was placed at Bank of America, and who is now working at Fitch Ratings. Here Farhad tells us about his experience of the Eagles programme, how he has made lifelong memories and launched his career.

What would you like the power to do?
That was the question on my first day at Bank of America (BofA), and it shifted my mindset from self-doubt to focusing on my potential. It gave me the clarity to push through imposter syndrome and thrive early in my role. The ELBA Eagles Programme was the perfect launchpad for my finance career, offering a smoother entry into the corporate world compared to traditional routes. My placement at BofA equipped me with essential skills that continue to shape my work at Fitch Ratings. The extended internships allowed me time to grow into the professional I am today, and I owe much of my development to the guidance of mentors and managers at BofA.

Tell us a bit about your background, including your education and what you wanted to do as a career:
I was raised in a Bengali-speaking, working-class family in Tower Hamlets, one of London’s most disadvantaged boroughs. From an early age, my parents emphasised the importance of education, a lesson I carry with me. I graduated with a 2:1 in Law from the University of Westminster but felt uncertain about my career path. I knew I wanted to be part of the corporate world, and when I heard about the Eagles Programme through family members, I saw it as a chance to carve out a new direction. Applying was the first step on a journey I hadn’t anticipated.

My experience as a Corporate, Social, Responsibility (CSR) Analyst at Bank of America
At BofA, I joined the CSR team, where I focused on the Arts & Culture programme. I managed the bank’s internal engagement in its arts initiatives, including coordinating the launch of BofA’s new Art Sponsorship with the National Portrait Gallery (NPG) for its grand reopening. My role also involved connecting employee networks with charity partners. One of the highlights was collaborating with the communications team on art projects, where I took part in selecting imagery for vinyl displays on the bank’s exterior windows. Additionally, I contributed to prestigious initiatives, hosting conversations with cultural icons alongside BofA.

A highlight of my career was attending the grand reopening of the NPG, where I enjoyed a “red carpet” moment and found myself in the company of inspiring figures like Malala Yousafzai. It was a defining experience in my work within the arts and culture sector.

Mentorship played a crucial role in my development. My managers Maggie & Nikki at BofA were incredibly supportive, embodying the emotional intelligence and leadership qualities I aspire to. I sincerely thank Luke, Russ, Chris, KJ, and the entire CSR team for making my experience memorable. Andrea Sullivan played a pivotal role in championing the Eagles Programme, and I’ll never forget the personal touch she brought when she invited the team to her home for dinner—a memory that will stay with me. The connections I made at BofA have left a lasting impression and will be valuable throughout my career.

The Lasting Impact of the Eagles Programme
Now at Fitch Ratings, I’ve secured a permanent role, thanks to a fellow Eagle who helped bridge the connection. The Eagles Programme truly works, with its self-sustaining network opening doors I hadn’t expected.

Reflecting on my journey, I am incredibly grateful for the friends and relationships I’ve made along the way. The experiences, from attending the National Portrait Gallery’s grand opening to volunteering at Kew Gardens with my mother and the BofA CSR team, are memories I’ll cherish forever. I encourage anyone seeking a similar opportunity to apply for the Eagles Programme — it can be a life-changing experience that can set you on a path to success.