The programme was first introduced in 2015 to help local unemployed and underemployed graduates from Hackney, Newham, Waltham Forest and Tower Hamlets progress onto graduate-level employment through a series of insightful workshops and excellent development opportunities.
The first stage consists of five evening workshop webinars designed to enable graduates to reflect on their experience, plan their next career steps, and build their network. The second stage offers attendees the opportunity to apply for a 100% tuition fee-paid scholarship to study one of the innovative postgraduate programmes offered at the University’s London campus.
Since its inception in 2015, over 100 people have benefited from the workshops, with more than 40 students from the programme going on to study degrees, and 22 having graduated with a master’s. Graduates have gone on to work for companies such as ING and Hackney Council.
Vanessa Brown currently studies MSc Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management and received a scholarship through her participation in the Inspiring Success programme. Previously, she was running a modern Caribbean food pop-up stall at Hackney Empire.
“When I found out about the Inspiring Success programme, I couldn’t believe such a package of support existed. I’ve already gained so much from my experience at the University, I would encourage anyone eligible to apply for this programme,” Vanessa commented.
Similarly, alumnus Paul Ntulila was able to study MSc Diplomacy and International Governance at the London campus as a result of the Inspiring Success programme. Before the scheme, he volunteered for a number of organisations and he now works as an Assistant Project Manager at the Global Disability Innovation Hub.
Paul commented: “Without the scholarship I would not be where I am today. Through the teaching and support given to me I was inspired to believe in myself and empowered to work hard and achieve. Two days after I graduated I was offered a job interview and then offered a position, for that I'm truly thankful.”
The Inspiring Success programme aims to positively impact even more students for the 2020-21 scheme, as for the first time the programme will be delivered digitally. This year Inspiring Success will also benefit from the support of Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp. (MSG Entertainment), which is sponsoring one of next year’s scholarships.
MSG Entertainment is a leader in live experiences with a portfolio of iconic venues and entertainment brands. MSG Entertainment has previously announced its plans to transform an undeveloped site in Stratford into MSG Sphere, a state-of-the-art entertainment venue that will help revolutionise live entertainment. As a true community partner, the company is committed to making training initiatives and local hiring a priority – with targets for how many jobs will be filled by local residents.
Jayne McGivern, Executive Vice President of Development and Construction for MSG Entertainment said: “We are delighted to be supporting an innovative programme such as Inspiring Success, which has helped so many local graduates gain valuable job skills and begin exciting careers. MSG Sphere would support jobs across a wide range of skillsets, and we look forward to working closely with º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ and our other neighbours to create these opportunities for east London.”
Between the University and all of the partners involved in the Inspiring Success scheme – including the London Legacy Development Corporation as well as local employers, entrepreneurs and industry experts - an investment of nearly £500k has been used to support talented individuals from the four boroughs.
Professor Tony Edwards, Dean of º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ London said: “Programmes like Inspiring Success are so positive for the University. Our east London students bring so much to our community. I am really proud that we have a programme like Inspiring Success that makes such an impact locally.”
For more information about Inspiring Success and to apply, please visit the dedicated webpage. In addition, º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ London will be hosting two online information events about the scheme on 21 and 28 May, which you can register for here.
The deadline for applications is 31 May 2020.
Any organisations who would like to get involved with the Inspiring Success programme can email Ben Cole at B.P.Cole@lboro.ac.uk for more details.