How did you first hear about Urban Synergy?
It’s going to sound like a crazy story, but I actually found out about Urban Synergy while playing basketball in the park one day. About 15 or 20 minutes into the game, one of the people from Urban Synergy asked if she could join in. After we finished playing, she started asking me about my age, what kind of career I was interested in. That sort of thing.
Then Leila, the CEO of Urban Synergy, came over, and they both started asking me a few more questions. When I mentioned that I wanted to go into finance, they told me Urban Synergy could help with that by pairing me with a mentor. That’s how I was matched with my mentor, Ben Goss, CEO of Dynamic Planner.
Ben shared so much valuable advice that I still use today. Even simple things like remembering to smile, because it gives people a positive impression of you. He also taught me a lot about presentation skills. I actually had to do a small presentation for him, and he told me, “When you’re presenting, make sure you’re telling a story and educating at the same time.” That really opened my mind.
What kind of work experience opportunities did Urban Synergy connect you with?
I had the opportunity to gain experience with the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG). That was an incredible, eye-opening experience. I got to see what life on the front lines of the industry is really like. A trader at LSEG walked me through his day-to-day, showing me how dynamic his work is, and even introduced me to the terminology and technology they use.
I also had work experience with Legal & General through Urban Synergy, which gave me direct exposure to the world of asset management. I met senior professionals from across the company who shared insights into their roles, how they built their careers, and what their typical day looks like.
What’s your current role? What are you doing now?
Right now, thanks to another connection through Urban Synergy, I’m interning at Thomson Reuters as a Market Strategy Intern for six months. My role involves supporting the sales side of the business by helping ensure that sales reps have the right tools they need to go to market and sell effectively.
Another aspect I really enjoy is working with AI. It’s exciting and constantly evolving, so there’s always something new to learn.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming a mentee with Urban Synergy?
Really listen to what your mentor has to say — and be yourself!