Our Insight Day was co-hosted by Urban Synergy's Head of Programmes, Dianne Johnson, and Goldman Sachs' VP and Java Developer, Greg Anthony, aiming to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world industry experience.
Managing Director & Co-Head EMEA Black Network, Advisory Board Member, Clare Ashley, was the Goldman Sachs keynote speaker and she gave an introduction to the company and also talked about her career journey.
Role Model panel
A panel of role models from across the business were interviewed by Dianne Johnson:
- Nicola Romain - Digital Content Strategist (Global Investment Research)
- Ayana Douglas - Software Engineer (Synthetic Products Engineering Analyst)
- Jay Akpara - Vice President (Technology Risk Assurance)
- Hana Laguda - Associate in Asset & Wealth Management
- Tamilore Ogunyemi - Fixed Income Management & Strategy
The panellists helped to decode their roles for the students and also shared some career insights and provided practical career knowledge. This was followed by a Speed Mentoring session with more Goldman Sachs volunteers from across the business giving students further opportunities to learn from professionals.
Goldman Sachs staff shared career insights and pathways with the students, to expose students to a wider range of roles within the company and finance and banking industry as a whole. It also provided students with networking opportunities gaining professional skills and a greater understanding of the finance industry.
Hosting an Insight Day opens doors for students who might never have the opportunity to visit a prestigious workplace. If you would like to learn more and partner with Urban Synergy, please Contact Us.
Student comments
"I enjoyed the Speed Mentoring as it enabled me to develop a greater understanding of life at Goldman Sachs"
"I enjoyed learning about careers at Goldman Sachs and listening to how the mentors went about obtaining their jobs"
"Very good insight day, it helped me understand more about engineering, internships and the benefits of networking"
"The mentoring workshop was a valuable and insightful experience that deepened my understanding of the mentor-mentee relationship and the skills required to be an effective mentor/mentee. One of the most useful aspects was learning about active listening and how crucial it is to create a safe and supportive environment for open conversation"
"Well organised, the panel conversation was really useful. Well facilitated by Urban Synergy & Goldman Sachs"
Teacher Comments
"The keynote speaker and the panel were very open and honest about their various career journeys. The moderator asked very interesting questions, which kept everyone engaged"
Volunteer feedback
"Students asked good questions and were interested in learning more about building a successful career. Great for students to have this insight early enough"
"Enjoyed collaboration, students appeared to be engaged and keen to learn about the industry"
"Lovely students. Showed interest, were well-mannered and had good questions"
