A successful Central Saint Michael’s Sixth Form student shared her empowering apprenticeship journey at the inaugural Career Connect event at Millennium Point.

Boma Praise Jumbo is an Assistant Manager Risk & Compliance Apprentice at HSBC. She spoke of overcoming the pressure to prove herself and conform to others’ expectations in the workplace at the event which brought together over 100 young people eager to learn more about apprenticeships, enhance their skills, and explore potential job opportunities.

Boma achieved Distinction Star and BB grades in Health & Social Care, History and English Literature A Levels during her time at Central Saint Michael’s.

At the Career Connect event Boma offered practical advice on navigating the apprenticeship journey, as well as answering attendees’ questions.

Initially, Boma said she felt she had to act like someone she wasn’t to gain acceptance and recognition. However, with the guidance and support of her mentors at HSBC, she learned to embrace her true self and to feel more at ease in her professional environment.

Multicultural Apprenticeship Alliance, working with Pathway Group, hosted the event to provide young people with the information and inspiration they need to pursue their career goals, empowering individuals through education, training, and employment.

The event featured diverse exhibitors, including some of the most prominent names in education, training, and employment services. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with representatives from Ladder for Greater Birmingham, Swift Childcare, JTL, Severn Trent, HIT Training, University of Wolverhampton, GTG, West Midlands Combined Authority, Transport for West Midlands, Solihull College & University Centre, The Development Manager, Department for Work & Pensions, and Pathway Group.

The day was filled with motivational talks and presentations from industry leaders, including the West Midlands Combined Authority and key employers like Severn Trent.

Attendees explored opportunities across various sectors, including healthcare, education, utilities, transportation, and government services, relevant to their career aspirations.

Martin Chandler, Chief Engagement & Enrichment Officer at Pathway Group and one of the event organisers, expressed his enthusiasm for the success of ‘Career Connect.’ He remarked, “The overwhelming response to ‘Career Connect’ has been inspiring. This event was more than just a job fair; it was a celebration of potential and a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we unite with a shared vision. We aimed to create a space where young people could explore apprenticeships and feel motivated and supported in their career journeys. The energy and engagement we witnessed today affirm that we are on the right path, and I am excited to see the lasting impact this will have on our community.”