The Big Apprentice Meet-Up, organised in partnership with the Multicultural Apprentice Network powered by Pathway Group and the Association of Apprentices (AoA), took place at BT Group’s Birmingham office.
Sponsored by Kaplan, this event saw more than 200 registered apprentices from a range of sectors, creating an inspirational platform for apprentices to connect, share experiences, and learn from industry leaders.
Safaraz Ali, Founder and CEO of the Multicultural Apprentice Network stated: “It was an absolute privilege to host this event, and we’re deeply grateful to our sponsors Kaplan and BT Group for their support. The Big Apprentice Meet-Up was more than just a gathering—it was a testament to the hunger for learning and growth that we see in today’s apprentices. To have over 130 apprentices take time out of their busy schedules to attend shows the level of commitment and passion they have for shaping their future through apprenticeships. This event underscores the value of apprenticeships in driving social mobility, and it’s clear that the desire for personal and professional development is stronger than ever. We’re proud to be part of a movement that empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue meaningful careers.”
Event Highlights
Multicultural Perspectives with Jagdeep Soor
A key session was delivered by Jagdeep Soor, Executive Director of Pathway Group and the Multicultural Apprenticeship & Skills Alliance. As a staunch advocate for diversity and inclusion, Jagdeep highlighted how multicultural perspectives enhance workplace environments, encouraging apprentices to bring their unique experiences and voices into their careers.
Customer X and ‘Vinsights’ with Guest Speaker Vinay Parmar
Industry expert Vinay Parmar delivered a thought-provoking session on ‘Customer X’ and ‘Vinsights’, urging apprentices to think critically about customer experience and personal branding. His practical insights on elevating both personal and organisational profiles resonated strongly with the audience, driving home the importance of customer-centric approaches in all career paths.
The Apprentice Journey: A Conversation with Irsa Hussain and Umayr Tanveer
In a candid discussion, successful apprentices Irsa Hussain and Umayr Tanveer shared their journeys of overcoming challenges and finding success in their fields. Their inspiring stories of perseverance and growth provided attendees with a roadmap for navigating the complexities of apprenticeships, reinforcing the message: “Always say YES to opportunity.”
Networking for Career Success with Sophie Poduval-Morrell
Sophie Poduval-Morrell delivered an engaging session on the importance of building strong professional networks, offering practical advice on how apprentices can cultivate meaningful connections to unlock career opportunities. Her message was clear: Networking is about more than collecting contacts; it’s about nurturing relationships that lead to growth and collaboration.
Networking Session Facilitated by Jenny Pelling
Jenny Pelling, Kaplan’s Director of Apprenticeship Development & Diversity, expertly facilitated a networking session that enabled apprentices to connect in a supportive, professional environment. This session underscored the power of networking in building successful careers and forming lasting professional relationships.
Jagdeep Soor, Executive Director Multicultural Apprenticeship & Skills Alliance Powered by Pathway Group stated: The Big Apprentice Meet-Up was a resounding success, bringing together a diverse group of apprentices who are poised to shape the future of their industries. The partnership between Multicultural Apprentice Network, AoA, and Kaplan, along with the generous support from BT Group, ensured a well-rounded and enriching experience for all attendees. With its focus on diversity, customer insights, personal journeys, and professional networking, the event provided apprentices with the tools and inspiration they need to thrive in today’s competitive workforce.
Emily Rock, CEO Association of Apprentices stated: The Big Apprentice Meet-Up exemplifies the power of collaboration and community in the apprenticeship sector. By bringing together apprentices from diverse backgrounds and industries, the BIG Apprentice Meet Up: Birmingham not only fostered valuable connections but also highlighted the potential of our apprentice community.
Conclusion: Building the Future of Apprenticeships
The Big Apprentice Meet-Up was a landmark event, bringing together a diverse group of apprentices poised to shape the future of their industries. By fostering connections and offering a well-rounded programme focused on diversity, customer insights, and professional networking, the event equipped apprentices with the inspiration and tools they need to thrive in today’s competitive workforce.
