Catford, London – Zak Ali, a first-generation British Bangladeshi, has achieved great success and is on his way to becoming a Corporate Lawyer thanks to the support and mentorship provided by the award-winning youth empowerment and social mobility charity, Urban Synergy. This Thursday, the CEO and Founder of Urban Synergy, Leila Thomas, proudly shares how Zak’s journey from school in Catford to getting a first class degree from Cambridge University is not just a personal achievement, but also a testament to the power of mentorship and community support.
Leila Thomas recalls meeting Zak at a school event where he took her aside and said, “Please help us to succeed in life.” She knew that a sharp young man like Zak had the potential to go far with the right guidance. Thomas says, “While I’m no fairy godmother, I knew that with our support and the opportunities provided by Urban Synergy, Zak could achieve great things.”
Zak attributes his success to his belief in learning from those around him and never shying away from asking for advice. He says, “One of my strongest beliefs is that we can learn so much from those around us. I never shy away from asking people about how they got to where they are and thinking about how I can learn from their experiences.”
Zak’s background is a testament to the power of determination and hard work. He was born in Lewisham and raised in Grove Park and Downham in South London. His parents never went to university, but Zak’s determination to succeed led him to attend Conisborough College before receiving a Leathersellers’ academic scholarship to attend Colfe’s School for sixth form.
Zak’s next step is a training contract with a prestigious ‘Magic Circle’ law firm, where all expenses will be paid. Before starting his career, he plans to take an extended gap year to travel and experience new things. When asked how Urban Synergy helped him, Zak says, “Urban Synergy was fundamental to my early career growth and mindset by showing us the opportunities we have on our doorstep when growing up in a world-class city like London.”
Urban Synergy provided Zak with his first work experience at Thomson Reuters and held valuable sessions on networking and corporate etiquette. Zak also credits Urban Synergy for helping him overcome any barriers to excel in education and his career. He says, “The team that started Urban Synergy, Leila and Dianne’s mentorship, made it clear that our background should never hold us back and that we are worthy of every opportunity that comes our way. This was integral to tackling any imposter syndrome I may have experienced.”
For other young people coming through Urban Synergy, Zak’s advice is to never let the lessons stop outside the classroom. He says, “Seize every opportunity Urban Synergy provides you with and put those skills into practice when on school trips, open days, and similar events. Your only barrier is yourself!” Zak is grateful to Urban Synergy for developing his ambition early on and will always be indebted to the charity for their support.
Urban Synergy, a registered charity based in Catford, London, aims to empower young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and provide them with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to fulfill their potential. Their mentorship programs and workshops have helped countless young people like Zak achieve their dreams and break through barriers. Urban Synergy believes that with the right support and guidance, every young person can reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.
For more information about Urban Synergy and their programs, please visit their website at urbansynergy.org.
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Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.