Zoraez’s Journey: From Inspiration to Growth at the Young Professionals Conference Reading 2024
Publish Date: 2024-11-10
Highlights from YP Conference Reading 2024
Hello! My name is Zoraez, and I am thrilled to share my experience from the Young Professionals Conference at Reading Town Hall. The day was filled with insightful sessions, networking with industry leaders, and hands-on learning experiences that equipped us with essential skills for our future careers. Here’s a recap of this incredible event and the impact it’s had on my journey!
Setting the Stage
The day began with an uplifting welcome from Dan Miller, Founder and CEO of Young Professionals. His inspiring words set a positive, motivating tone for the day, making us feel connected, empowered, and ready to embrace every opportunity the conference had to offer.
Keynote Insight from Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance delivered an inspiring keynote session, sharing valuable advice on career paths and the challenges within the legal and corporate fields. The session highlighted both the rewards and realities of these industries, leaving us with a wealth of motivation and practical insights.
Building Commercial Awareness
A major highlight was the Commercial Awareness Workshop hosted by Charles Russell Speechlys. It emphasized the importance of staying updated on industry trends—a skill essential for professionals across all sectors. The workshop solidified why understanding the larger business landscape is crucial, and I left feeling inspired to continue broadening my commercial awareness.
Insights from Apprenticeship & Graduate Panel
The Apprenticeship and Graduate Panel Discussion was a treasure trove of knowledge. Panelists shared their journeys and provided insider insights into what top employers value, offering guidance on navigating applications and making informed career decisions.
Networking with Industry Leaders
The networking session was a golden opportunity! I connected with representatives from leading companies, including Goldman Sachs, Amazon, KPMG, EY, BDO, Grant Thornton, Clifford Chance, National Grid, the Royal Air Force, Charles Russell Speechlys, Wates Group, AICPA & CIMA, and the University of Law. These conversations offered unique perspectives on various industries and allowed me to build connections that could shape my career.
Hands-on Learning at the KPMG UK ESG Workshop
One of the most exciting parts of the day was the KPMG UK ESG Workshop. In teams, we designed an app aligned with KPMG’s ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) goals. Collaborating with peers like Noor Mohamed, Victoria Muanankole, and Afza Bibi, I took charge of the marketing strategy. This experience not only strengthened my skills but also fostered new connections within my team. The hands-on session brought theory to life and showcased the real-world impact of ESG initiatives.
My Interview as a YP Ambassador
A special highlight of the day was being interviewed by Shaan Damree for Young Professionals' social media. As a YP Ambassador, this was an incredible opportunity to share my journey, aspirations, and advice with others, deepening my connection to the YP community.
Final Thoughts
The Young Professionals Conference was truly inspiring. From the keynote talks to the workshops and networking sessions, each moment was packed with learning opportunities, skill development, and meaningful connections. I left the conference feeling empowered to take on new challenges in my career journey and excited to apply what I’ve learned.