Female students explore careers in financial services ahead of International Women’s Day
70 female students from London’s state schools were provided with a unique opportunity to explore the world of business and discover the iconic Fearless Girl.
The event, organised by State Street Global Advisors, took place the week of International Women’s Day at the London Stock Exchange on Tuesday 5th March, following the unveiling of the Fearless Girl in Paternoster Square – a bronze statue serving as a reminder to companies and investors of the importance of having more women in leadership positions.
Entitled Careers in the City, professionals from across the financial and professional service sector came together to help paint a picture of the professional world to young women.
We were delighted to welcome former candidate of The Brokerage Deborah Igunma as our key note speaker, who shared her story of how she got to where she is now.
Speaking about the event and our involvement, our executive director Bridget Gardiner said:
“The Brokerage was delighted to partner with State Street Global Advisors to support the Fearless Girl initiative. We provide opportunities for students from state schools In London to get into financial and professional services. The young women aged 16 and 17 from schools in some of London’s poorest boroughs took part in an action-packed afternoon. They had the chance to hear from successful women in financial and professional services, as well as meeting many role models at various stages of their careers. The message from the day was that young women need to be fearless in pursuit of their career goals, and that there are no longer barriers to young women making it into the boardroom.”
The panel discussions and networking sessions aimed to raise aspirations and educate the students on the career paths available within the City.
Professionals from State Street Global Advisors, London Stock Exchange and Lloyd’s Banking Group shared personal stories of how they themselves progressed into financial services – encouraging them to go forward and be fearless themselves.
Commenting on her experience at the event, one student from The Coopers’ Company and Coborn School said: “Thank you for organising such an interesting, inspirational and influential event which not only made me feel more empowered and driven but also gave me the opportunity to learn new information which allowed me to realise the amazing opportunities which exist in the City.”
Following their participation in the event, The Brokerage will offer further development opportunities for these young people, helping them build their own career success within financial and professional services.