Over the past month, we have had two incredible masterclass sessions that have given insight into some fantastic industries. Our first of the two was with The Guild of Human Resources Professionals where we were joined by Lex Verweij – Director at Capgemini Invent, Louise Brown – Global HR Reward, Performance & Analytics Governance and Control Lead at HSBC, and Joe Honess – People Analytics and Planning Account Executive at Visier Inc.
The masterclass delved into how data analytics, gamification and machine learning are changing the way HR functions are carried out. The panel gave us a brief look into their own journeys, highlighting the pathways they took to enter the field of HR. What was interesting was that they each work in different sectors and had a variety of educational backgrounds, inspiring our young people and raising their aspirations to succeed.
Our attendees and team thoroughly enjoyed this session as it gave a look into the technology and the processes that are currently being introduced and implemented into HR. On our anonymous poll, one young person said, “I got to learn information that I never knew about data and how important it is and also taking in the fact that HR is much more than it specifies”.
We also recently hosted another wonderful masterclass session with Dr Michael Zdanowski, an Independent Low Carbon & Net-Zero Energy Communications Consultant, who has an educational background in Humanities and spent 15-years working in Public Policy and Media Building. It was inspiring to hear about his career journey and what routes he took to getting a career in PR.
After his introduction, Michael explored the differences between PR and Advertising. He defined PR as ‘story telling’ explaining that is not direct marketing but is about managing external reputations. One young person who attended commented in an anonymous poll, “It gave an insider perspective in the role of PR and communications allowing me to make a more informed decision regarding my job search.” Another commented, “It was very helpful in clearing the common misconceptions around the definition of PR and key differences between PR and Advertising.”
PR and Communications Masterclass
This masterclass offered our attendees an introspective look at the Public Relations, Media, and Communications industries, all of which are growing industries that require an array of skills to ‘make it’. Michael helped us navigate what fulfilling careers in these industries look like, breaking down some of the misconceptions surrounding them.
Overall, both sessions were beneficial and helped to highlight the skills needed for, and pathways to, accessing life-changing careers. We can’t thank Michael, Lex, Louise, and Joe enough for their support in raising our young people’s career aspirations. Check out the upcoming dates for our ACE Programme so that you can build the skills needed to access great careers.
Stay up to date with ZA!
