Published: January 30, 2024
As part of its partnership with leading charity, The Prince’s Trust, Unity Trust Bank recently opened its doors to 10 young people aged 16-25. The event provided them with a unique insight into the world of banking and financial services.
The Prince’s Trust ‘World of Workday’ event was hosted at Unity’s offices in Birmingham’s Brindleyplace. The young attendees took part in a series of engaging and educational group activities. They had the chance to learn more about career opportunities in the financial sector.
The programme included interactive sessions on Unity’s brand and propositions, climate sustainability and financial crime departments, offering valuable insights into the day-to-day operations and roles within the organisation.
Key sessions explored the attendees’ knowledge of ethical banking. We showed how responsible finance can make a positive social, economic and environmental impact.
The attendees also took part in an HR session which provided interview hints, tips and insights into what recruiters are looking for. The group were also given an exclusive tour of Unity’s on-site call centre.
A highlight of the event was a series of talks by inspirational speakers from Unity, who shared their personal stories and career journeys, providing motivation and encouragement to the attendees. The overarching goal of the event was to help instil confidence and skills in the young individuals to help equip them to face the challenges of the modern job market.
The event also supported Unity’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. As an organisation celebrating its 40th birthday this year, the bank provides inclusive work environments, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their background or personal challenges, has the support they need to succeed.
Nina Chaidemenaki is the Insights & Partnership Manager at Unity. Commenting on the day, she said: “Engaging with the young participants was a truly enriching and informative experience. The initiative not only provided valuable insights for our attendees, but also served as a learning opportunity for the Unity colleagues taking part. We are excited about the positive impact this partnership continues to have. We look forward to building on this success in the future.”
Emma Grieris the Corporate Partnerships Manager at The Prince’s Trust. She said: “Unity led a fantastic ‘World of Workday’ for a group of young people from our TEAM programme. They learnt about a broad range of roles available within the organisation and sector. It was great to see staff across the organisation taking the time to engage the young people in learning about their departments and roles. It was a fantastic event all round!”
The Prince’s Trust charity was founded in 1976 by King Charles III. It helps young people across the UK build confidence, learn new skills and start a career.
Unity has partnered with The Prince’s Trust since October 2022. Our employees have taken part in a variety of engagement and sponsorship activities. The bank’s ongoing engagement with young people from disadvantaged communities demonstrates its dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those facing adversity, and its commitment to deliver social good.
In recognition of Unity’s outstanding contributions, the bank was nominated for the prestigious Prince’s Trust ‘Rising Star’ Award in 2023. The award celebrates organisations that have made a real impact within the first 12 months of their partnership.
During the ‘World of Workday’ event, Unity’s Jade Bromage, People and Change Lead and Sukhie Gakhal, Relationship Manager, spent time with the attendees explaining their roles and answering questions.
Jade said: “It’s inspiring to see so many young people wanting to make a positive difference to their lives by putting in hard work with The Prince’s Trust. During the event, they were open to feedback and advice on how they can start their career in customer services, and I wish them the best of luck.”
Sukhie added: “This was an extremely fulfilling opportunity creating a supportive and engaging environment. It enabled me to contribute to young people’s growth and development. What a great way to pay it forward!”