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In September 2024, Haleema began an exciting new chapter in her career as a Marketing Automations Apprentice at Ideagen.

Her story is a perfect example of success demonstrated through the Think Big programme delivered by Nottingham Forest Community Trust in partnership with Ideagen.

Haleema’s journey started during her time at Nottingham Academy Greenwood Campus in Sneinton, where she engaged with Think Big.

Through the programme, she learned about the diverse career paths available, including the apprenticeships offered by Ideagen, the programme’s co-founder.

Reflecting on her Think Big experience, Haleema shared valuable insights about how Think Big has helped shape her future.

The Value of Think Big

For Haleema, the Think Big programme was more than just an introduction to career options—it was a gateway to self-discovery.

“The Think Big programme provides an opening for young people to start thinking about their future and what they actually want to make of themselves,” she explained.

Workshops That Made a Difference

Haleema credited hands-on experiences and exposure to real work environments as transformative.

“Being in a work environment that suited what I wanted to pursue had a lasting impact and pushed me towards my career goals.”

Motivation to Pursue an Apprenticeship

The programme opened Haleema’s eyes to the potential of apprenticeships as an alternative to traditional routes like sixth form or college.

“Knowing that I had an option besides the usual college route really motivated me. An apprenticeship provides the support I need while giving me valuable experience,” she said.

Gaining Essential Skills

The workshops and mentoring sessions offered during Think Big equipped Haleema with crucial skills for her application process.

“I was given key communication tips and suggestions on my CV. These, along with attending workshops, really helped my application stand out,” Haleema noted.

A New Perspective on Career and Personal Growth

Since starting her apprenticeship, Haleema has gained practical experience and developed skills that have broadened her perspective on the professional world.

“It’s [the apprenticeship] given me insight into how things work outside of school. The upfront experience has helped improve areas I previously struggled with, like communication.”

Advice for Aspiring Apprentices

Haleema’s advice for others considering an apprenticeship is simple:

“Be yourself. Everyone has areas in need of development, and apprenticeships are there to support you in improving both inside and outside work. There’s no need to pretend to be perfect.”

Looking Ahead

Haleema envisions herself completing a degree apprenticeship with Ideagen and earning a Level 6 qualification.

“Before Think Big, I wasn’t aware of this option. The programme has heavily influenced my view of the future and the opportunities I want to pursue.”

The Role of Think Big in Youth Development

Haleema believes programmes like Think Big are vital for young people, offering alternatives that are often missing from traditional education systems.

“Think Big provides a mentor-like role, filling the gap in schools by exposing students to paths beyond sixth form or college. It gives students new options and the confidence to choose what excites them.”

Claire Knee, Global Community & Social Impact Lead at Ideagen said: “I clearly remember meeting Haleema for the first time when she attended a Think Big masterclass at Ideagen as a Year 10 Nottingham Academy student.

“At the end of that masterclass she said, ‘I am going to work here’.

“She was clearly inspired by her experience and motivated to join the tech industry.

“It’s a privilege to witness Haleema’s career development in the tech industry and to reflect on her journey with us and Think Big, and we are proud that she is now inspiring other young people to follow in her footsteps through Think Big.”

Graham Feek, Deputy Chief Executive of Greenwood Academies Trust added: “We are absolutely delighted for Haleema to be the first apprentice emerging from this fantastic programme.

“The Think Big Programme has been instrumental in inspiring students across our Nottingham-based academies at Greenwood Academies Trust.

“It’s been incredible to see so many young people engaged in opportunities they might not have otherwise considered and we look forward to following Haleema’s journey as she takes this exciting next step.”