• August 27, 2024

    Step Up 2024 recap

    As part of Step Up, a free six-month program for female students in their penultimate year of university in the UK, we offer participants access to skills development training, career events and mentorship. Working with our sponsoring businesses, BT Group, Virgin Media O2 and Vodafone, we pair our students with mentors to work alongside them for the duration of the program.

    As we wrapped up another successful program this summer, we spoke to some of our mentees and mentors to learn more about their experience.

    Applications are now open for Step UP 2024 here and interested companies should email info@girlstalkcorporation.com for more information

    BT mentor and mentee: Ian Yearwood, Delivery Manager, BT and Folademilade Oyeleke

    How would you summarise the program in three words?

    Ian: Fulfilling, fun and collaborative

    Folademilade: Engaging, empowering and supportive

    Folademilade, how has the program contributed to your career progression?

    It has given me confidence in the skills that I have and also self compassion to learn any necessary skills to excel in my career without rushing myself. I recently secured an internship with Kraken Technologies and the self compassion and confidence I’ve honed in the program have really helped me make the most of my internship and excel.

    Ian, what skills did you gain or improve from being a mentor?

    I was able to improve on my listening skills and adapting my communication and presenting style according to my mentee’s needs which has been helpful within the workplace.

    Folademilade, can you share your most impactful learnings?

    That I should have more confidence in myself and my abilities and also that me promoting myself in spaces that can get me opportunities is not cringy or something to be embarrassed about.

    Ian, which element of the Step UP program did you enjoy most?

    Seeing the growth of the mentees has been awesome from the very start of the programme in January right up to graduation in June when we watched the deliver their group presentations.

    Ian, if you could share one piece of advice for our community interested in working at BT what would it be?
    Be inquisitive. Ask questions about the role, show you know something about the company and its values and you have an eye on the future tech. Do not be afraid to showcase your talent.
    Folademilade, what’s next for you?
    Finishing my computer science degree and also working towards landing a full time software engineering role as that is my passion.
    Vodafone mentor and mentee: Steve Carr, Lead Product Manager-Mobility Solutions and Trudy Muthoni
    How would you summarise the program in three words?
    Steve: Inspiring, fun and insightful
    Trudy: Informative, engaging and an eye-opener
    Steve, what skills did you gain or improve from being a mentor?
    To tailor my approach and ask questions to continually check understanding and the worth of the sessions we had so that I could adapt my mentoring style as needed.
    Trudy, how has the program contributed to your career progression?
    This program has significantly deepened my understanding of the international market, especially as someone relatively new to this country. The master classes were invaluable in helping me refine my CV, understand recruiters’ expectations, and differentiate myself as a candidate. Also listening to inspiring stories from fellow women in tech boosted my self confidence towards securing a career in tech. My mentor, Steve Carr, provided personalised guidance through multiple one-on-one sessions, where he reviewed my CV, connected me with Vodafone graduates who offered valuable insights, and helped me prepare for interviews. Additionally, I had the opportunity to engage with peers in the program who work in the same industry, allowing me to learn from their experiences as well. By putting all these learnings into practice, I have been able to assess my skills and align my self to the roles that suit me best.
    Steve, which element of the Step UP program did you enjoy most?
    The monthly calls and knowing that I was helping Trudy expand her network by introducing various others to run through their background and path into STEM
    Trudy, can you share your most impactful learnings?
    My most significant learning experience was overcoming imposter syndrome. I often felt unqualified for roles I encountered, not due to a lack of skills, but because the job titles seemed too senior. Additionally, I discovered that maintaining an active presence on platforms like LinkedIn can enhance visibility to recruiters and possibly considerations for securing a role.

    Steve, if you could share one piece of advice for our community interested in working at Vodafone, what would it be?

    Be yourself, be aware of your own skills, talents and most importantly bring your true personality to the table.
    Trudy, what’s next for you?
    I am just about to complete my masters degree in Data Science while concurrently seeking a role in the industry. I’m at the interview stage of several roles and hoping for a good outcome.
    Blessing Aimuel was mentored by Trevor Graham, from Virgin Media O2 and shares her experience below:
    How would you summarise Step UP in three words?
    Empowerment, connection and progression.
    How has the program contributed to your career progression?
    The Step UP program has significantly contributed to my career progression by providing invaluable opportunities for networking, mentorship, and skill development. Through 1-2-1 mentoring, monthly masterclasses, and the Tech Summit, I gained insights and guidance I believe would enable my growth in the tech industry.
    Can you share your most impactful learnings?
    One of the most impactful learnings from the program has been the power of networking and mentorship. I had the opportunity to connect with like-minded peers, professionals, and recruiters and this has not only expanded my knowledge but also opened my mind up to new perspectives.
    What’s next for you?
    I plan to continue improving on the skills I gained through Step UP to further advance my career in technology and I look forward to making the most of these resources as I progress in my professional journey.
    Applications for 2025 are now open here

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