The University of Roehampton’s Student Futures team has successfully established a partnership with Graduate Mentor CIC to provide mentoring opportunities for final-year students. This initiative aims to guide and inspire the next generation of Roehampton graduates, equipping them with the skills, confidence and industry insights needed to progress in their careers, overcoming barriers as they transition to the workplace.
In April 2024, Baroness Sandip Verma reached out to invite Graduate Mentor CIC to the University of Roehampton’s 20th Anniversary reception at The House Of Lords. This led to a meeting with Julie Powell, Head of Careers and Employer Engagement.
“I’m really keen to find out more about how Graduate Mentor CIC can support us with mentoring opportunities for our students. This opportunity comes at the right time when we are looking at how to reduce the gaps in graduate level employment for some of our most deprived and BAME students.” Julie Powell, Head of Careers and Employer Engagement
“The University of Roehampton remains committed to fostering this meaningful partnership with Graduate Mentor CIC that empower students, bridging the gap between academia and industry and creating lasting positive outcomes for graduates and employers alike.” Julie Powell, Head of Careers and Employer Engagement
Julie has now joined the Graduate Mentor CIC Advisory Board, where she collaborates with an esteemed network of mentors from industries from the world of business, banking, finance and manufacturing engineering including professionals such as Chris Fagan, Tom Pickering, Charles Holmes, Vince Pizzoni and Zia Rezvi which further demonstrates the impact of this partnership.
Zia Rezvi, mentor has commenced his role as a mentor and is currently mentoring two exceptional start-up founders: Oleksandr Lugovyi, who is developing Generative AI for VR Phobia Treatment, and Nguyen Van An, who is launching a Japanese Language Exchange Platform. Zia Rezvi also recently served as a judge at the University’s LaunchPad Competition. Reflecting on the experience, he remarked,
“What an incredible experience judging the LaunchPad Competition at the University of Roehampton! The passion and dedication of the student entrepreneurs were palpable. I was genuinely blown away by the creativity and potential on display. It’s a privilege to witness the next generation of business leaders take their first steps.” Zia Rezvi, Mentor
Building on this success, the University is now expanding its mentoring initiatives to support a cohort of final-year students participating in the Digital Internship Scheme. This programme will provide students with hands-on industry experience, significantly enhancing their professional development and employability. Through professional mentoring, these students will be well-prepared for their future careers, gaining the ability to effectively articulate the skills and experiences that employers highly value.
If you are a University interested in our partnership opportunities please contact [email protected]
