Peer-to-peer careers programme inspires Praxis women in inaugural year

On International Women’s Day, 8 March 2024, Praxis launched the Full 24 initiative to celebrate the ‘Inspire Inclusion’ theme. This peer-to-peer career advice programme brought together volunteers and participants from around the globe. Twenty-four women from Praxis participated, using their company’s annual volunteer time to make a difference.

The Full 24 proved how transformative a single day can be, breaking it into 24 hour-long career guidance sessions. The initiative paired Praxis women with aspiring professionals who shared their career interests, providing a powerful launchpad for their progression.

Applications were received from across the world, including the BVI, UK, and Europe, showcasing diverse backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

Volunteers shared their career stories, daily routines, and the challenges and triumphs they faced. They delved into alternative career pathways, offering advice and insights to help guide the participants forward.

Katie Hellowell, People Operations Manager, shared her thoughts on the initiative’s appeal: “We covered some exciting personal development tools invaluable for anyone looking to advance or shift their careers. Sharing tips on CV presentation, re-training opportunities, confidence building, and interview techniques is something I’m passionate about, and I was delighted to be part of it.”

Anita Mirasole, a Client Services Director from Malta with 16 years' financial services experience, also participated. Holding an MBA and specialist qualifications in taxation and trust law, Anita found the experience deeply rewarding: “It was a real pleasure to join the inaugural Full 24. Providing expert insight and encouragement was immensely satisfying, and I wish all participants the best in their future careers.”

The sessions covered various professions, including fiduciary, HR, legal, marketing, and operations, leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved.

Charlotte Barnes, Group Head of Marketing & Communications, said: “It was wonderful to see the energy grow from the initial idea. The Praxis volunteers and the women they mentored gained so much from the experience. I’m thrilled that we created an initiative that genuinely benefits women in the workplace.”

Participants’ feedback reflected the initiative’s success:

• ‘This was an insightful and inspiring experience with knowledgeable representatives of the company, evidencing the importance of a positive and strong corporate culture.’
• ‘My session was extremely helpful and inspiring, offering career guidance in the marketing industry. Thank you!’
• ‘They provided invaluable coaching regarding possible career opportunities that may be available to me, which I had previously overlooked. Their professional explanation regarding changing careers has provided me with invaluable food for thought.’
• ‘I want to thank my contributors for giving up their time for the Full 24, which supported International Women’s Day. My session was extremely helpful and inspiring, offering career guidance in the marketing industry.’

Next year’s Full 24 will be open for applications in spring 2025.

Please note that this article is intended to provide a general overview of the matters to which it relates. It is not intended as professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. Any engagement in respect of our professional services is subject to our standard terms and conditions of business and the provision of all necessary due diligence. © Praxis 2023