Empowering Early Career Aspirants: A Recap of the WCAN Early Application Clinic 2024
WCAN (Women in the City Afro-Caribbean Network) hosted an empowering Early Application Clinic on August 20, 2024, at the prestigious offices of Herbert Smith Freehills. Designed to kickstart the careers of black female university students and recent graduates, this exclusive event offered invaluable guidance and networking opportunities for those eager to gain an early advantage in the competitive worlds of Commercial Law, Investment Banking and Consulting.
Setting the Stage
The afternoon began with a warm welcome from the WCAN team, setting a tone of encouragement and support that resonated throughout the day. The event, which attracted 50 attendees from a larger pool of 120 sign-ups, was purposefully intimate, ensuring that each participant received personalised attention and actionable advice.
A Dose of Inspiration
The clinic officially kicked off with a motivational speech from a successful alumna who had navigated the challenges of the previous milkround with distinction. Her story was not just inspiring but also a clear testament to the impact of early preparation and strategic application planning. She emphasised the importance of submitting applications early and shared personal anecdotes about how starting early had paved the way for her success.
Hearing from Every Stage of the Process via a Speed Q&A
What made this event incredibly impactful was the diverse range of speakers who represented every stage of the application process specifically within Law & Investment Banking. We heard from professionals like Antoinette Hayes of Scotibank, who brought a unique perspective from both a Law firm and a Investment Banking recruiter’s viewpoint. Antoinette provided us with a compelling example of how to naturally integrate commercial awareness into our applications. She used a vivid example involving a football deal with the Premier League, one of the firm's biggest clients. This story not only illustrated the importance of commercial awareness but also showed how to link this knowledge with the firm’s specialisation in sports and media. Her practical advice on using personal interests to enhance commercial awareness was a highlight for many attendees.
We also benefited from insights shared by Macy, a current trainee solicitor at Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF). Macy’s perspective on applying her motivations and what resonated well with the HSF recruitment team provided a clear roadmap for those in the room. Her candid advice on how to effectively communicate motivations during the recruitment process was both insightful and practical.
Interactive and Insightful Sessions
Following the motivational speeches, the event transitioned into interactive sessions, which were particularly engaging. Every attendee had the chance to participate in one-on-one consultations where experts meticulously reviewed their CVs. With about 12 professionals across our sponsors providing detailed feedback, these sessions covered everything from CV structure to content, ensuring that participants understood how to use their space effectively to make a strong impact. The hands-on guidance helped attendees refine their application materials, positioning them for success in the highly competitive sectors they were applying to.
Networking and Additional Insights
In addition to the structured sessions, there was a separate, smaller networking session led by Antoinette Hayes of Scotiabank, who is incredibly passionate about what she does. Many attendees stayed back to hear her additional insights on aligning themselves with the right opportunities. Her advice on how to better position oneself for success, even if one hasn't secured something immediately after university, was particularly reassuring. The message was clear: the more proactive you are in gaining experience, even in industries not directly related to Law or Investment Banking, the better prepared you’ll be when the right opportunity comes along.
Looking Ahead
The WCAN Early Application Clinic was more than just an event; it was a strategic initiative aimed at increasing the number of early applications submitted by black female students and graduates. By providing a structured environment that combined motivation, education, and networking, WCAN has once again demonstrated its commitment to empowering the next generation of black female leaders in the corporate world.
As we move forward, the insights and connections gained from this clinic will undoubtedly propel attendees toward successful careers. We eagerly anticipate seeing the positive impact of this event on the upcoming milkround and beyond. Next up is our Evolution Conference & Apprenticeship Fair 2024 for 15-18 Year Old Women and our HIGHLY anticipated
Gratitude to Our Supporters
We extend our deepest thanks to Herbert Smith Freehills for hosting this impactful event, and to all the sponsors including Slaughter & May, Scotiabank and all volunteers who contributed their time and expertise. Your support not only made this clinic possible but also played a crucial role in improving and contributing to our goal of fostering diversity and inclusion within the corporate world.
Join Us
WCAN is dedicated to creating opportunities and fostering connections that empower black women. If you're interested in getting involved in future events or sponsorship opportunities, don't hesitate to reach out at info@wcan.uk or sponsorship@wcan.uk. Together, we can continue to make a difference.
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