Since March 2021 the LoveLocalJobs Foundation have been delivering a range of community programmes that have enabled approx. 1,500 secondary school students from across Sussex to receive a much needed boost of inspiration and support via a mixture of online events, school based deliveries and virtual mentoring sessions.
Even though face to face interactions have not always been possible, the online interactions have enabled students to receive one to one mentoring sessions during the pandemic from positive role models at leading local employers. The business volunteers have listened to the students’ experiences and have shared their own personal and career journeys, engaging the young people in conversation to help inspire and motivate them.
This is the ideal opportunity for young people to understand what may lie ahead and to open their eyes up to the potential possibilities. The programme enables young people to understand the different qualities and attributes that are required in the workplace and what they have to offer a local employer.
The various programmes have been supported by over 60 business volunteers from exemplar employers across the region who are sharing insights on their roles, and the skills and personal qualities that potential employees need.
Jo McGowan, Chief People Officer at First Central Insurance and Technology Group, said: “We’re delighted to once again be a supporter of the fantastic Be the Change programme. This innovative programme is essential to young people in our community, helping to equip them with confidence, ambition and employability skills, which together will go a long way in preparing them for the future.
“Despite the restrictions created by the pandemic, our business volunteers were delighted to take part in engaging virtual mentoring sessions, and hope that their expertise will help to make a real difference to the participants.”
