WTW’s DreamBig@WTW programme, a partnership with the charity Urban Synergy, has come to a successful close after two years of hard work and dedication from all involved. The programme, which aims to support young individuals facing socio-economic challenges, has changed the lives of 11 young people and helped communities through mentorship, hands-on experience, and giving back.
At the heart of this success are the individuals who have lived and breathed WTW’s values, as well as the sponsors and colleagues who have invested their time and expertise. Cheree Psalms, Nikki Hall-Jones, Deena Patel, Dorothy Wilkes, Chiedu Hing, Garrett Gaughan, and Alastair Swift have all played crucial roles in the programme’s success.
The DreamBig@WTW programme was created in 2022 when WTW recognized the need for more diversity in their entry-level workforce. Cheree, Dorothy, and Nikki were passionate about the programme, having experienced opportunities as teenagers that helped them succeed in the future.
DreamBig@WTW is a two-year programme designed to nurture the talents of young individuals facing socio-economic challenges. The programme offers skills-based training in WTW’s key business segments: People, Risk, and Capital. This is complemented by a mentoring programme with Urban Synergy, where corporate mentors work with participants on their CV, mock interviews, and presentation skills. In addition, participants join WTW’s mentoring programme, attend monthly personal development workshops, and take part in a paid four-week internship at WTW’s London office each year.
One of the unique aspects of the DreamBig@WTW programme is its focus on giving back. Participants are encouraged to take part in volunteering activities each quarter, and this has included working in food banks and taking part in environmental park activities.
The participants in the programme were mainly selected through schools with higher-than-average rates of free school meals in South and East London. The programme has had a positive impact on these young people, with one participant stating that it had changed their life.
WTW’s Co-Heads of DreamBig@WTW, Cheree Psalms and Dorothy Wilkes, have expressed their pride in the programme’s success. They believe that it not only nurtures future entrepreneurs and leaders, but also strengthens community well-being and fosters a diverse, local workforce.
The programme culminated this month in a presentation to WTW, where the young people worked in teams to research the best ways for the company to deploy AI. The participants have expressed their gratitude to WTW for the opportunities they have been given and the impact the programme has had on their lives.
Leila Thomas, CEO and Founder of Urban Synergy, has also expressed her thanks to WTW for creating this opportunity and investing in diversity. She believes that the impact of the programme will stay with the young people involved forever.
The success of the DreamBig@WTW programme is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved. WTW and Urban Synergy have shown what can be achieved when companies and charities come together to invest in the future of young people.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.