World of Work Panel Discussion gives students a look inside professional life

Students at CCC’s Kings Cross centre learn about the world of work through an inspiring and informative panel discussion covering multiple industries.

Capital City College (CCC) students from a range of courses attended a World of Work Panel Discussion at the college’s King’s Cross centre on 30 January. The event attracted 80 students from a range of subject areas including A Levels, Business and Professional Services, Engineering and Health and Social Care.

The panel discussion aimed to provide students with valuable insights into the world of work and to help them get a clearer picture of what to expect as they embark upon working life. The panel included professionals from a broad range of industries and welcomed both entrepreneurs and industry leaders:

• John Lyons, Director of Human Hatstand 
• Merisa Johnson, Clinical Deputy Manager and District Nurse at East London NHS Foundation Trust 
• Kishor Kukadia, Software Engineer at Bank of America
• Ursula Henry, Head of Executive Business Management at Federated Hermes
• Geraldine Anyanwu, Client Development Director at Global Media
• Lucina Woollams, Sustainability and Social Value Coordinator at MCS Building Services 
• Temi Afolabi, Strategy and Operations Director at The Nichols Group
• Mrs Tracey Gotts, Pharmacy Technician and Support Staff Lead at NHS England
• Miss Rebecca Davies, Social Value Manager at Willmott Dixon Interiors

After welcoming the panellists, Zara Khan, Student Enrichment Officer, guided the discussion with a series of thought-provoking questions, allowing each expert to share their personal career journeys, unique real-world experiences and professional advice.

The panel members’ varied backgrounds worked in tandem with their dual perspectives as both employees and employers, resulting in a discussion that offered students a uniquely comprehensive perspective on standing out in the job market.

A number of panellists emphasised the non-linear nature of modern career paths, highlighting the fact that many professionals move across industries. They also emphasised the importance of transferable skills and reminded students that relevant work experience can be gathered from a wide range of environments and experiences. 

The event encouraged students to think about the technical and interpersonal skills required to pursue their desired career path as well as impressing on them the importance of being able to present themselves with confidence. The practical knowledge imparted during the discussion will help to increase their confidence in making informed decisions as they navigate the early stages of their careers.

In addition to sharing practical career advice and real-life examples, the panellists were generous with their time and encouraged students to approach them with their questions and comments after the discussion had ended. Many of the students took the opportunity to connect with the panel members and stayed behind to talk with them at the end of the event.

The event was organised by Events and Activities Co‑ordinators Aleena Sharif and Elisha Lashley along with Zara Khan, Student Enrichment Officer, who hosted the panel discussion. The team was supported by Student Governor Ali Akhtar, who is studying A Levels in Maths, Physics and Fine Art, and captured content on the day.

At CCC, our Careers Team provides expert guidance, valuable support and unique industry opportunities to all students. If you’re ready to take the next step in your academic or professional journey, take a look at our wide range of courses and apply now!

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