"I Feel Confident That I Belong": Johnae's Journey from EY Foundation Alum to Intern

My history with the Foundation was the main motivator as to why I applied, having completed two programmes with them when I was in college.

I was in a very stagnant place. My gap year was proving to become more tedious each day. The job market isn’t exactly super friendly, especially not to those looking for entry level positions.

So when I saw the job posted in the EY Foundation’s Alumni Newsletter, I ran straight towards it. The EY Foundation has always been a very familiar place. I know how much it helped me, so there was no second guessing that it could do it again if I were accepted.

2.      How has this experience helped you develop your skills and shape your future career?

This experience has shaped me into a talented young professional with so much more potential. I think that I have grown immensely both professionally and personally.

On a professional level I feel so much more prepared for what’s ahead, for the first time in a long time I feel like I have an idea on where I would like to go, with a particular interest in areas such as marketing, PR, comms and events.

I have developed so many skills such as networking, communication and presenting. As well as more technical skills such as CRM management, video and graphic editing using Canva, and contract handling. And going forward, I am keen to continue developing my editorial skills.

I would also say that my confidence has grown significantly, and not just when it comes to speaking to other people and networking, but also in my ability to do my work. I feel confident that I belong in certain spaces, that I do my job well, and that I have a lot to offer. I think just overall, I’ve developed a growth mindset when it comes to my career journey.

3.      What's one thing you learnt that you wouldn't have gained in a classroom?

One thing that I have learnt that I don’t think that I would’ve gained in the classroom is the power of networking and connection.

I was really shy in college, I kept to myself, I never went up to people to initiate conversation. It’s quite a frustrating position to be in, especially when I know what I have to offer, and maybe how much I could’ve benefited from making those moves and connections.

I would definitely say that I now feel more able to approach people. Networking is what is more than likely going to get me my next job. It might not be directly, but through small things like advice or interview practice, or even just a friend to talk to.

It’s not always about what you know, but who you know.

4.      Can you describe a moment where you felt proud of your contribution?

I would say that my time with the Corporate Partnerships team was a series of uphill climbs because I was constantly putting myself out there, networking, introducing myself and making connections. And in a way I felt like that was good enough contribution.

But if I had to choose, it would be any time that I managed to source a volunteer to support our work. One particular memory is when we needed to diversify our panel for the Step Into Business workshop. A few months earlier I had gone to a conference called “She Leads for Legacy” through which I was able to connect with some amazing Black women and Black professionals. A WhatsApp group was created following the event, which I joined. I had never really spoken up in this chat, but I just knew that any of these women would be great for the workshop. So, I reached out – I asked for their support, and to see such a positive response from these women was incredible.

I managed to secure a volunteer for our Step into Business programme, but then another amazing thing happened where the ladies who couldn’t volunteer for this programme offered to volunteer for other programmes. This was just one of those moments where I was like, “Imagine if I’d never said anything!”.

5.      Why do you think more employers should offer internships and work experience opportunities?

There are many talented young people who have potential and that are willing to learn. I believe that it’s an employer’s job to identify and train them. I don’t think that there is a skill that can’t be taught. So, let’s teach them!

I think it’s also worth redefining what the term “entry-level” means. Young people will naturally lack a huge amount of experience, so let’s give them the opportunities to build that experience.

It's also important that young people feel seen. That they feel like they have a chance of "making it". That the generation above them believe in their talents. I believe this is a strong motivator for young people to work harder.

The same way that anyone new can bring fresh perspectives to a team, an intern can. Everyone has their own lived experiences. I also think that, with EYF being a charity that supports young people, it’s always beneficial to have a young person on the team who can provide consistent and valuable insight. For example, I was able to share my experiences as a young professional, as someone who had taken a gap year, and as someone navigating the transition from student to employee.

6.     What advice would you give to a young person who is thinking about applying for an internship like this?

I would say that there should never be an opportunity that comes to you that you shouldn’t try to chase and grab. Whether that be an internship, work experience, a networking event, or volunteering, there is no such thing as too much experience.

In terms of a rotational internship specifically, it’s such a great way to get exposure across multiple sides of a business. For me, it guided my next career step.

I’d also say that being an early career professional can feel like there is a lot of pressure on you. You are learning, you’re finding out the best way you work, or how to use new applications. Take advantage of the time you’re given to learn new things, be open and give yourself grace.

The people around you genuinely want you to succeed and want to help, so don’t be afraid to lean on that support. Ask questions, make notes. And remember that you can make the most of experiences like this by being open and by being your most authentic self.