Inspiring change, empowering diversity – the RISE programme
Inspiring change, Empowering Diversity – the RISE programme
Written by Siobhan McIntosh, Senior Project Manager – Employment & Skills
In a world where opportunities are abundant but access can remain unequal, the Futuremakers RISE programme emerges as a beacon of hope and empowerment, illuminating a path for young Londoners of Black and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, aged 18-25. Crafted through a collaborative effort between ELBA and Standard Chartered Bank, the RISE programme stands as a transformative initiative aimed at amplifying employability skills, broadening early corporate career prospects and fostering meaningful connections.
At the heart of this transformative programme lies the invaluable one-on-one mentorship from Standard Chartered volunteers, which takes place over a six-month period. Complementing this mentorship are the dynamic RISE workshops, pivotal to participant development and the programme’s ongoing success. Hosted at Standard Chartered’s London Head office, these workshops include an array of engaging experiences, from the assessment day featuring verbal reasoning, to in-person and telephone mock interviews, Pymetric testing, and tailored workshops addressing topics such as personal branding, skills for the future, breaking down barriers, well-being and networking.
Rooted in pragmatic application, these immersive workshops infuse participants with the resilience, corporate exposure and confidence necessary to help them upskill effectively, bolster self-assurance and receive constructive feedback from dedicated Standard Chartered volunteers. By bridging the gap between potential and actualisation, these workshops also equip attendees with tools and insights that can support them to standout out in this fiercely competitive job market, as they embark on their early corporate careers. Attendees learn to harness their inner strength, embrace setbacks as stepping stones and explore their aspirations with optimism and a clearer roadmap toward their personal next steps—no matter how big or small.
A pinnacle moment within this year’s RISE workshop calendar was the transformative ‘Mentors’ Den’ event, held on 11th July. This extraordinary occasion provided candidates with a rare opportunity to engage with 13 influential leaders, drawn from the Standard Chartered Group Management Team including the group CEO Bill Winters. The diverse ensemble shared a treasure trove of wisdom, offering insights, anecdotes and aspirations that sparked impressive dialogues and learning between these experienced professionals and the young attendees. These interactions furnished participants with insightful guidance for their individual journeys and also gave them a platform to share their own views on the barriers to employment and ideas for increased accessibility as we build for the future world of work. Dr. Anne-Marie Imafidon, a trailblazing figure in the realm of STEM was also a keynote speaker and talked about the importance of representation and the value of inclusivity and equity in STEM industries.
Reflecting on the ‘Mentors’ Den’ RISE candidates shared their thoughts:
“It was an incredible experience networking with senior bank members, gaining insight from their stories and advice.”
“My conversation with Bill and Tanuj reshaped my perspective on work and life in different countries. It’s always enlightening to encounter diverse viewpoints and learn more about people’s journeys.”
The event served as a catalyst for innovation, enabling young minds to bridge skills gaps, dismantle barriers and lay the groundwork for the forthcoming generation of leaders. Additionally, we are pleased to announce that the RISE programme has been named a finalist for the prestigious Dragon Award 2023 in the Inclusive Employment category.
About Futuremakers by Standard Chartered
Standard Chartered is committed to empowering young people to have the right skills to meet their full potential. Futuremakers by Standard Chartered is our global initiative to tackle inequality and promote greater economic inclusion in our communities. We provide young people from low-income households, particularly girls and people with visual impairments, with opportunities for skills development.
Find out more at sc.com/futuremakers.
If you would like further information on RISE email siobhan.mcintosh@elba-1.org.uk
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