South Thames College, Wandsworth is celebrating the success of its female learners who recently completed the four-week Leading Ladies Employability Programme, delivered in partnership with Zoe Garshong, CEO & Founder of Ms Independent Careers, and Aiman Elsawy from the Employability Team.
Learners from Level 2 Beauty Therapy, Business, and Health & Social Care took part in engaging workshops focused on developing confidence, leadership, teamwork, CV writing, interview skills and public speaking. Over the four weeks, they worked in groups to create a professional group CV, research an industry of interest, and deliver a final presentation proposing three industry improvements. For many, this meant overcoming public-speaking fears and stepping into new leadership roles.
The finale brought together an inspiring panel of judges:
- Fernanda Vargas Mendez, multi-award-winning consultant at IBM
- Afiyah Amasu, award-winning barrister at No5 Barristers’ Chambers
- Michaela Mensah, Trainee Fund Accountant and University of Cambridge graduate
The panel were thoroughly impressed and provided valuable feedback to each team, from strengthening CV layouts and highlighting transferable skills, to enhancing presentation clarity, research depth and delivery techniques. They also shared personal insights into their career journeys, giving learners an encouraging and realistic view of future pathways.
A special congratulations to the winning Team 2, Sophia, Nikkie and Nedline, whose presentation on Social Media and Marketing explored ways to make online platforms more meaningful, personal and socially connected. Each winner received a £50 Amazon voucher, kindly provided by Ms Independent Careers, and all learners enjoyed BEBEETO sweets goodie bags.
Across the programme, learners showed exceptional dedication, teamwork, and growth, building confidence, improving communication, and demonstrating readiness for the professional world. This collaboration highlights the powerful impact of empowering young women through education and industry partnerships.
