Award-winning youth empowerment and social mobility charity Urban Synergy believes that self-esteem grows when you see people like yourself enjoying success in education and work.
Stefan Harriot, who came through the Urban Synergy Mentoring Programme Alumni is Co-Chair of its Youth Council.
He spoke to 120 year 9 (age 13/14) students at Addey & Stanhope Secondary School online last month to launch the charity’s first “Success Looks Like US” Career Assemblies.
Stefan told students about his journey from a local Lewisham school to the world of work. He overcame challenges at secondary school during his GCSEs to focus and “knuckle down” to A levels in the sixth form.
With the help of a mentor from Urban Synergy, Stefan secured an apprenticeship as a Data Analyst apprentice at the London Stock Exchange. Last year he became a Market Risk Analyst.
Stefan emphasised the importance of extracurricular activities for work life balance.
Student feedback
“I liked how it was informative and showed how improvements can be made at any time.”
“It covered all the information that a Year 9 would need to know about the options for their career.”
“One thing I liked about the assembly is how his life is linked to ours.”
Teacher feedback
“Thanks for the very inspirational and powerful assembly this morning.”