Wings of Hope Speed Mentors for the 17th March 2024

SPEED MENTORING 2024

On Sunday 17^th March 2024, The Wings of Hope Team, together with London Business School (LBS) Volunteering Society, hosted the 12^th Flagship Wings of Hope Speed Mentoring event in the Nuffield Hall at LBS.

28 mentors representing over 30 industries, spoke to 13 – 20-year-old students about the world of work and shared stories of their journeys to where they are today.

Unlike other careers events, WOHAA Speed Mentoring aims to give an honest and broad view to students about the often-circuitous route to jobs. There is often much anxiety for young people around exams, grades, and applications for university, apprenticeships, or work experience. However, as young professionals who have gone through a variety of experiences, the WOHAA speed mentors were there to reassure students that the world of work, and the routes into it, are not linear.

Why we run speed mentoring?

“It is always an ambitious task to get as many mentors as possible in one room who represent a broad range of careers – this year we were delighted to host wonderful mentors from a variety of backgrounds. The below “industry” names don’t do enough justice to the breadth and depth of experiences these mentors have. Many have taken gap years, switched degrees, or not had any degrees at all,” says Smruti Sriram, organiser of the event. “And that’s perfectly fine! Life and the world of work is not straightforward, and it is important to recognise all aspects of work that enrich you – that improve your mind, body, our planet, and our general wellbeing -it’s not all about your pay slip at the end of the month.”

What was your favourite of the day?

When we surveyed the student attendees about the event – the overall rating of the event was 8.5 out of 10. Below are testimonies from a few of our students:

“I really got interested in fashion after having the opportunity to speak with different people at this event. I didn’t know what I was really into at first, but now I want to see where I can be within the fashion industry, and I want to explore it.”

“The thing I enjoyed most about today was learning practical skills like hearing what mentors did wrong and what they did to fix it. I learned a lot more about the industries I’m interested in. I know what field I’d like to be in and now I know what that field needs, so I can better pursue the right industry within that field to succeed.” “I got such good advice from this event. It’s nice to know that I can change my mind about my career, it takes some of the pressure off. I am more excited to pursue what I want to now.”

“I got such good advice from this event. It’s nice to know that I can change my mind about my career, it takes some of the pressure off. I am more excited to pursue what I want to now.”

If you would like Wings of Hope Achievement Award to be offered at your school, or would like to support future events please email: [email protected]

Smruti Sriram - Entrepreneurship, Sustainability & Design

Hi I am Smruti, and I am delighted to present the 12th Speed Mentoring for Wings of Hope. I went to school in London, and took a gap year (in which my friends and I started WOHAA, along with my parents!) I studied Philosophy, Politics, and Economics at the University of Oxford and now help run a sustainable business called Supreme Creations / Bags of Ethics. I work with beauty, design, luxury, retail, and fashion brands to create sustainable packaging. The mission is to encourage businesses and consumers to switch from single-use to reuse. I have a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from London Business School. My passion lies in working with young people, women in leadership, and nature. My current project is called Green Tree Badge aiming to get 1 million young children to learn more about the amazing world of trees.

Angela Farrugia - Keynote Speaker

Angela Farrugia was the Founder of the largest Brand extension company in the world, generating over $12.4bn in retail sales annually through IP partnerships and licensing. She is a UK-based entrepreneur with over 22+ years experience in establishing a global brand extension platform and a new breed of agency that operated via 25 offices in 18 countries.

Having sold her business in 2019, Angela founded Brand x Society, a brand management company with services including brand strategy, business development, IP licensing, creative inspiration, retail development, geographical expansion and collaborations.

She lectures at Central Saint Martins MA Fashion and also at University of Westminster MA Fashion Business, and sits on 3 boards including 1 PLC, providing brand strategic advice to young companies. She recently lead the British Fashion Council’s celebration of 30 years of Newgen.

Michael Houlder - Law

I am currently a lawyer at Latham & Watkins, where I advise clients on a wide range of corporate matters, including cross-border mergers and acquisitions and private equity transactions. I went to school in Essex and particularly enjoyed studying Economics, Geography and Psychology. After school, I studied Law at Bristol University. I then spent six months travelling across Europe and Southeast Asia before starting my two-year legal training contract. I qualified as a solicitor in 2017. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, playing or watching sports and cooking.

Olga – Technology & Aerospace

I am currently working in sales at Amazon Web Services in Aerospace and Satellite division. I help startups in space industry adopt cloud technology.

I studied economics for my undergrad back in Russia, and after graduation I spent a decade in New York City working in financial services industry. I had several roles at investment banks advising investors on buying or selling technology stocks. I moved to London to study business (MBA) at London Business School (LBS). In my time at LBS, I really enjoyed my electives in entrepreneurial studies curriculum, and if I had to pick one class that stood out overall, that would be Negotiations and Bargaining. It comes in handy at work and at home (especially trying to negotiate with a toddler!) After graduation, I was hired into Amazon's leadership rotation program where I had a number of roles in advertising, sales strategy and operations, and program/product management. My passion has always been space so you can see it took me some time to get to a role to work with the space industry! Outside of work, I spend most of my time raising 3 young boys, and love to travel and learn new cultures whenever I can. If you are also passionate or curious about space, technology or entrepreneurship, looking forward to meeting you at the speed mentoring event and answering your questions!

Harry – Law

I am currently a corporate lawyer at Slaughter and May and have been a partner there for four years. I grew up and went to school in Birmingham where I studied Maths, Geography, French and Latin at A-Level. I have always been a generalist who enjoys a range of subjects and so I chose to study Geography at university, going to Worcester College, Oxford. After university I converted to law, studying for an extra year for the Graduate Diploma in Law, and then did the Legal Practice Course before starting my training contract at Slaughter and May, where I have been ever since. Outside of work and studies, I have always had a range of extra-curricular activities but a particular focus on sports.

Jen – Sustainability & Nature

I am currently a Development Manager at The Royal Forestry Society. I went to college in Stevenage and really enjoyed Geography and Science. I went on to study Marine Biology at the University of Liverpool and gained a scholarship to study for a Masters in Environmental Management at the University of Sunderland.

After university I worked surveying sand dune plants and butterflies for the National Trust. Then I gained a job as an ecologist in the private sector before returning to charity work with the RSPB and Royal Forestry Society as a manager.

I enjoy working on my VW Beetle and Campervan and getting out into the wild to go camping and festivaling with friends.

Over my career I’ve gone from being certain that I wanted to work on the beach as a scientist, to managing teams who help to protect forests and woodlands. My work has taken me to some fabulous and breathtaking natural environments across the UK and further abroad. There’s always something new to learn about trees and forestry and it really feels like I’m making a difference to help combat climate change. That’s why I love my job.

Lana - Marketing & Fashion

I am currently a Head of Marketing at Osprey London. I went to school in London and really enjoyed English, PE, Spanish. I studied at Florida State University for my Bachelors and have an MA at Texas Tech University. After University I moved to NYC to pursue an internship in Corporate Communication and moved to London once it was over to start a full-time position as a copywriter in a beauty company. As a former athlete, fitness is a huge part of my life – in particular I love hot yoga and Barry’s Bootcamp… it’s my way to switch off from work and look after myself. A career is something that always needs to be considered as a journey and never a destination. We are always growing, moving, and transitioning… this also applies to the way we work and choose to make the most and ENJOY our time.

Travis – Finance & Professional Sport

I am currently a Principal at Ligo Partners, leading investments for a family office into tech startups. I went to Texas Tech University in the US and studied Accounting and Finance.

Immediately after university, I had a brief career as a professional athlete, before transitioning to the corporate world full time.

I am passionate about innovation and playing my role to progress humanity.

"A ship in harbour is safe, but that is not what ships are built for." - John A. Shedd

It is far more admirable to set your sails in the direction of your dreams, rather than stay within what is known. It will not always be an easy journey, but trust that the winds will take you where you need to go.

Amber - Law

I am currently a lawyer at Latham & Watkins where I advise clients on a wide range of corporate matters. Before qualifying as a lawyer, I attended the City of London School for Girls, where I particularly enjoyed studying History, Politics and English Literature. After school, I studied Law at the University of Nottingham, and following university, travelled for six months throughout Australia and South-east Asia before completing the Legal Practice Course and beginning my two-year legal training contact. Outside of work, I enjoy dining and exploring new restaurants, socialising with friends and attending Reformer Pilates classes.

Ekta - Pharmacist

Having studied pharmacy at King's College London, I am now a community pharmacist. The profession requires you not only to be an expert in medicines but also to provide as many services as possible to your patients including Smoking Cessation, Vaccinations and treating the new Pharmacy First service to name a few. Pharmacies have taken on many important roles to help ease the burden off GPs and hospitals so you play a valuable role within primary care in the NHS. I’ve always enjoyed science and received A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Maths.

Outside of Pharmacy I enjoy travelling around the world which you are able to do with more flexible hours as a locum.

I have chosen the community path in pharmacy but I will also discuss the other exciting options available when graduating with a degree in Pharmacy! Please also remember as with any career… Do what you love. If you fall out of love with one path you can always explore others. Look forward to meeting you all.

Rupal – Teaching & Entrepreneurship

Hi I’m Rupal. I’m the founder and lead tutor at Big Brains Tuition. I studied in London, have degrees in Business and Law and then went on to start my own business. It can be really daunting at school, thinking about what to do for the rest of your life but in reality, we all change careers many times. The career you start with is normally just the first step onto a pathway of different occupations and choices. Focus on the subjects that bring out the best in you, follow the opportunities that make you feel excited and bring you a sense of purpose. Come and visit for me for guidance on education, university choices, career prospects, well-being and a big dose of motivation!

Dr Janan Najjar - Dentistry

My name is Janan, and I’m a dentist working in Basildon. I went to school in Kent and I studied dentistry at Peninsula Dental School in Plymouth.

I was in Plymouth for 5 years where I learnt the skills needed to manage patients confidently. Since qualifying, I have been doing my Dental Foundation Training in Smile Dental Centre in Basildon as a general dentist.

In my spare time I like going to the gym and reading books!

Studying Dentistry definitely presented its challenges to me, as it requires a lot of commitment and dedication. Nonetheless, I loved my university experience and I would recommend it highly if you want to help people and transform their smiles!

Dr Amir Jahromi - Dentistry

My name is Amir and I graduated from Peninsula Dental School in 2021. In my first year since graduating I worked in a practice in London as a general dentist providing a range of different treatments. Since completing my Dental Foundation Training, I have been working in the hospital in the Oral and Maxillo-facial surgery department for the past 2 years. This includes assisting and performing a range of different surgical procedures on the face and mouth.

Outside of work, I like to workout, watch and play football, and cook!

Dental school was one of the most enjoyable things I have ever experienced and met some amazing people along the way. However, there were points in my training where I felt under pressure. Overall this developed my resilience and my ability to improve and learn from my mistakes.

Serafina – Science & Banking

I am currently a Financial Investor at Kartesia. I went to school in the North West and studied Maths, Chemistry, Physics, and Geography. I went to university at University College London and studied Chemical Engineering. After university I joined a Graduate Scheme and Lloyds Banking Group, rotating in different roles around the bank before settling in the Leverage Finance team lending money to businesses to help them grow. Three years ago I moved to Kartesia, where I continue to invest money into a range of businesses as they expand operations and grow their operations.

Outside of work I like to get out into the countryside for walks with my friends and family, as well as starting (but rarely finding the time to finish) lots of craft projects like sewing or painting. Leaving school to go to an engineering degree was an easy choice for me as it combined all my favourite subjects, but at the time I didn’t have a clear view on what I would do thereafter and was considering a range of career options. My current role evolves every day and I am always learning on the job both technically and personally.

Nathalie - Media & Marketing

I am currently a Commercial and Partnerships Manager at NME Networks. I went to school in the North West and studied English Literature, Maths, Physics and Art.

I took a gap year and worked in Theatre Production and at the BBC in TV Production before studying Business Management and Marketing at The University of Manchester.

As part of my degree I completed a placement year at Warner Bros. in their Film Marketing team, and on graduating I returned to Warner Bros. as a Film Marketing Coordinator. I spent 5 years there, creating marketing campaigns for films including Joker, Elvis, Fantastic Beasts, Dune, The Batman, IT, Ocean’s 8 and Don’t Worry Darling. Ready for a change, I then moved to NME where I currently manage music focused partnerships for brands including L’Oreal, AMEX, Universal, Adidas and Bose.

I’m starting a new role in May at Conde Nast and will be managing global partnership campaigns for their brands including Vogue, GQ, Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair and Conde Nast Traveller.

My keen interest in film, art, culture and music has played a significant part in my career so far. My A Level subjects were broad and at the time I was unsure where I wanted to be in the future. I simply knew that I wanted to be connected to the creative industries in some capacity. Taking on extra opportunities outside of University helped me learn more about creative roles, whilst my degree gave me insight into the world of business and marketing.

Hannah – Fashion & Home Design (Buying/Retail)

I’m currently the Buying & Desing Director for Home & Furniture at Sainsbury’s Argos, owning the product proposition for our master brand – Habitat, and leading a team of 80+ talented design and buying colleagues. I’ve covered most product areas across General Merchandise (i.e. Non-Food) in my career including Clothing, and I also sponsor our sustainability initiatives.

I grew up in the Northwest of the UK, near Liverpool. At school enjoyed most subjects, particularly languages (French & Spanish), biology, and PE. I went on to study Sports Science at Sheffield Hallam University, following on with a Postgrad in Chester with a focus on Sports Nutrition.

Among other jobs, I was lucky to secure a role in a retail/buying environment whilst studying for my Postgrad – I found lots of similarities in this environment compared to high performance sport – with my passion for product & my career developing from there!

I enjoy running & tennis, travelling and socialising with friends and family – and of course I have a keen interest in Fashion and Homewares!

Alex - Policy, Civil Service & Communications

I am currently a Policy Lead at the Cabinet Office. I grew up and went to school in South Wales, and my favourite subjects were History, English and Geography.

I then studied Politics and International Relations at University College London.

After university, I did an internship at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and studied a Masters in Political Communications at the London School of Economics before starting my current role.

I love attending local live music venues and going to as many gigs as possible! Long walks around London are also fun, especially when catching up with mates.

It's so difficult getting started off in the world of work - I applied for loads of different jobs and internships along the way. I’d love to chat with you to find out more about your interests and hopefully offer some advice!

Arvind - Science, Technology & Finance

I am currently Chief Operating Officer of Redenlab, a company that uses your voice to detect if you are unwell. I went to school in Surrey and really enjoyed history, geography and the sciences. I went to Oxford University where I studied Biochemistry. After University, I was an investment banker and investor, before I moved into healthcare technology. I love cooking, cycling and travelling. I would never have predicted how my career has panned out - I originally wanted to be a vet!

Beth – Graphic Design & Brand Marketing

I'm a graphic designer and currently manage a team of designers creating marketing and social media content for a large fashion retailer. I went to school in Surrey and studied graphics, photography and maths. I then went on to the University of Leeds to study Graphic and Communication design, before getting my first design job designing children's books. From there, I got a job with a magazine publisher and then moved into the world of fashion where I've been for the last 8 years.

I love to travel, and the best experiences I've had were taking a break after uni to travel South and Central America for 6 months, then later taking a 3 month career break to cycle around Europe.

When I was at school I had no idea what I wanted to 'do', but I was very clear on what I didn't want to do and what didn't interest me, so most of my life choices have been made through a process of elimination. I'm still not quite sure what the next steps in my career will be, but I'll just keep working hard, being genuine and open to new opportunities.

Abhinav - Engineering

My name is Abhinav and I am a big enthusiast of learning things, big or small. By profession, I am an Additive Manufacturing Engineer at Alloyed - a company that specialises in metal 3D printing. My degree in Materials Science from Oxford combined with my passion for automotive design gives me my professional specialities in 3D-modelling and chemical processing. I am looking forward to helping you elevate your professional presentation to the next level! I was a winner of the Wings of Hope Achievement Award many years ago, and delighted to be back to volunteer.

Christy – Startup & Brand/Creative Direction

I am currently the Brand & Creative Director at Butternut Box. I went to school in East Sussex and university at the London College of Fashion where I studied Fashion Illustration. I have always enjoyed art, design, branding and music which were the subjects I focussed on throughout my life + career development.

During university, I worked freelance across illustration and graphic design/branding and I taught children art in private groups. When I left university I continued working freelance, teaching and working at a fashion and photography agency. Now I run the brand, creative and social team at subscription-based DTC company Butternut Box.

Interests include: Anything creative. Anything that builds brands. Impactful campaigns, Brand identity, graphic design, and interior design, painting, music, and dogs of course.

A career isn't something you pick once and that's it. It's a path with lots of winding turns and surprises. Often good, but sometimes challenging. Your job/work/career will take up a large proportion of your time, so focussing I'd let your passion and interest lead the direction of travel.

Sagar - Economics & Policy

I work as a researcher at Rethink Priorities, a think tank that aims to identify the best opportunities to help people and animals. I spent most of my career working as an economist at the Bank of England.

I grew up in North West London, and went to school in Hertfordshire. I wanted to study economics at Nottingham University but didn’t get in (two years running), and somehow ended up at Oxford University.

I’m a parent to two young children, and serve as Treasurer on the Board of Veganuary, a charity that encourages people to try a plant-based diet.

Anakaren - Social Media, Technology & Business

I am currently Fashion Ecommerce Manager at TikTok.

I went to school in the Dominican Republic, I really enjoyed Math & Languages and making lifelong friendships which are priceless today.

After graduating school I went to Business School in Paris & New York and studied Business Administration.

After a very long job search (over a year) I started working in licensing : matching brands and celebrities with product manufacturers to develop new product collections and collaborations.

Interests : fashion, lifestyle, social media & consumer behaviour

Did I ever imagine myself doing what I am doing right now? Absolutely not! Life does not necessarily take you where you want to go, but always where you need to be so be open minded and pursue the opportunities presented to you. Experiences will rarely look like what you wanted, but every single one of them will serve a purpose. Learning is always a win.

Aiswarya - Engineering & Healthcare

I am currently an MBA student at London Business School. I went to university in Manchester and studied bioengineering. After university, I worked in tech for a few years and then spent a few years in consulting where I helped healthcare companies solve business problems.

Outside of work, I enjoy travelling and trying new cuisines. In my view, the most interesting careers are often the most varied. And in a world filled with disruption, there is strength in having a wealth of diverse experiences and skills.

Sol – Engineering & Technology

Hi, I’m Sol. I’m an MBA student at London Business School. I attended school in Brazil and enjoyed math and science.

I went to university, enrolled in many programs (Economics, Accounting, Law, Computer Science, Computer Engineering), and, after 11.5 years, graduated with an Electrical Engineering degree (I’m the perfect guy if you want to decide between any of these careers).

During and after university, I worked in many industries and in many roles. I started as an electronics engineer creating products, then as a software developer at investment management firms, and most recently as the Chief Technology Officer at a Brazilian hedge fund.

Besides business and technology, I’m interested in outdoor sports, YouTube and podcasts.

My life and career are living proof that life isn’t straightforward. Those who want to improve their lives must know the three ingredients of success: dedication, patience and luck. The bad news is that you can’t control one of them. The good news is that you can control the majority of them.

Harry – Fitness & Entrepreneurship

I am currently a Senior trainer at Barry’s Bootcamp, a model, DJ, and social media influencer. I went to school in South London and Studied Economics at Loughborough University.

I play golf A LOT (much to the dismay of my wife) and have recently started a passion project within the golf space (so I have an excuse to play more golf). I think my career path is a good example of taking time to find a career where I turned a passion into my job and I can honestly say I LOVE what I do. No week is the same, I work with some of the most creative and talented people across multiple sectors and some of the biggest, most successful brands in the world. I travel, I work with my wife, I have plentiful free time to pursue my passions and hobbies, and I have a decent financial cushion behind me.

Sugapuff – Presenter/Plus-Size Model

I am currently in the Entertainment industry as a Presenter/Plus-Size Model.

I went to school in East London, Tower Hamlets, where I obtained my GCSE’S. In college I studied Health and Social Care which brought me to The University Of East London to study Youth & Community. In learning how to better understand people from my time at uni, I gained skills and qualities needed to help me with my work in Entertainment.

I got into Presenting in 2012 and have interviewed names such as Ariana Grande, Little Mix, Simon Cowell, Cheryl, Alesha Dixon and many more. Have been featured on Channel 4, BBC, ITV, LadBible, BBC Asian Network, Puberty, GRM Daily, Metro, The Sun and Daily Mail.

In my spare time I enjoy socialising, watching tv, cooking and bringing my creative endeavours to life.

Never stop chasing your dreams, anything is possible. There are highs and lows and sometimes you may feel helpless but you cannot give up. It’s all about trying your best to stay focused and on task.