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Alumni talk careers at GSAL Futures Conference

Wednesday 14 July 2021

Alumni from a wide range of professions and sectors have shared their expertise at a virtual careers event for students at The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) and two of its partner schools, Leeds East Academy and Mount St Mary High School.

The GSAL Futures Conference, entitled Choose to Discover, took place on 5 July when more than 30 alumni of Leeds Grammar School, Leeds Girls’ High School and GSAL, all at different stages of their careers, were on hand to share their experiences, offer advice and answer students’ questions.

There were talks, panel discussions and workshops for students aged 16 to 18 to choose from plus two keynote speakers to open and close the event.

The opening keynote speaker was Alistair Cox (OL78), CEO of Hays plc, one of the leading recruitment companies globally. Alistair is an expert on the future of the labour market and provided an insight into the trends he expects to see in the next five to 10 years.

The closing keynote speaker was Nicola Elliott (OG94), founder of NEOM Organics, who spoke about how career choices may change and how people can seek out and discover new opportunities that align with their passions, lifestyle and interests.

Other speakers included Lucy Frazer MP (OG90), Minister of State for Prisons and Probations and Solicitor General, who spoke to students about a career in government and politics, Chris Poad (OL95), Managing Director, Online, for Tesco, who advised students on a career in the growing digital sector, Itohan Odekunle, Director at Leeds Law Society, joined fellow legal professionals in the law panel discussion, Laura Hoang (OG08) of BAE Systems shared the opportunities in STEM-related careers and Graeme Lee (OL83), CEO of Springfield Health Group answered questions on making an impact on the future of health and social care.

Students selected session depending on their areas of interest which included panel discussions on medicine, law, sustainability, engineering, financial services and social care and workshops on developing a positive presence and working internationally.  A truly inspiring day for students, teachers and speakers taking the time to focus on the future of our young people.

Pictured: Alistair Cox (OL78) CEO of Hays plac and opening keynote speaker at the conference.

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