Parity: Breaking down barriers

As we honour Black History Month, it’s essential to reflect on the impact of ELBA programmes that actively contribute to breaking down barriers and creating lasting opportunities for underrepresented communities. One such initiative making a real difference is the Parity Project, a programme designed to support young Black men in navigating their career paths and overcoming challenges they may face in the workforce.

Since its launch, the Parity Project has been a beacon of empowerment, helping countless individuals take their first steps into meaningful careers. One inspiring example is the story of David Ndanema, a young man whose journey is a testament to the programme’s lasting impact.

David recalls:

“I was scrolling through social media one day and came across a tweet about the Parity Programme. I decided to message them, and that turned out to be a game-changer for me.”

Through the Parity Programme, David was able to secure an apprenticeship at T. Rowe Price, which gave him the critical experience and skills needed to launch his career in analytics. After completing his two-year placement, he found himself looking for the next opportunity. Once again, Parity stepped in to guide him through the job search, connecting him with roles he could apply to.

David’s hard work paid off when he landed a position at State Street. “Parity was so supportive throughout the application process and interview stages,” he shares, highlighting how crucial the organisation’s guidance was in helping him navigate these pivotal career moments.

But Parity’s support didn’t stop at job placements. David also took advantage of many employability workshops, from CV-building to employability skills. He attended networking events where he met professionals from diverse industries and backgrounds—people he otherwise wouldn’t have had the opportunity to connect with:

“These events were eye-opening and helped me grow in confidence. My advice to fellow young people? Get out of your comfort zone. Attend as many networking events as you can. People always say, ‘It’s not about what you know, it’s who you know,’ and that couldn’t be more true. You never know when you’ll meet someone who could change your life.”

David’s story is just one of many examples of how the Parity Project is transforming lives, opening doors, and empowering young Black men to realise their full potential.

As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s remember the importance of initiatives like Parity that drive real, lasting change. Together with allies like State Street, we can continue to create opportunities for all, supporting the next generation of Black leaders, professionals, and change-makers.

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