By Mariam Abood – Manchester Rise 27 Alumna
Finding work in 2026 as a young person can be an energy zap. Every day there’s a new obstacle we’re expected to overcome. Corporate jargon, endless application hoops and unwritten office cues that nobody explains.
This can be demoralising for Gen-Z when trying to break into the industry. It creates feelings of insecurity, hopelessness, and even shame. At least that was the case for me.
“You’re clever, Mariam. You went to university and got a degree. You should know this.”
When I shared my story, it resonated with a lot of my peers. The disconnect between Gen-Z and the current workforce is stark and ultimately, we don’t always know where to turn.
That’s why Agent Academy’s Rise Programme matters.
A Different Kind of Welcome
From meeting the recruiter at a jobs fair to being onboarded by the Agent Academy team, it felt different from the start. All of the team were positive, proactive and responsive. Your worries and anxieties weren’t brushed aside; they were heard and listened to.
The first day was a friendly but professional experience of icebreaker challenges. The role of Agent Academy was explained and our mission statements were introduced, but we were also guided into translating them into our own personal values, goals and self-reflections.
This was new for me. I had never experienced a programme so heavily focused on me as a person. It opened my eyes to how personal development could grow into professional development.
Meeting the Client
Next we were introduced to our client, something that would usually have been intimidating for me and many other young people. Client briefs can feel scary when you’re so new to the world of business. But with Agent Academy, it felt different.
Incorporating creative practice into a business environment was something I had never been taught before, yet this was at the heart of everything Agent Academy does. This new and innovative approach helped me see business and marketing through a whole new lens. The client we were paired with shared this approach. They were actively interested in breaking down the barriers between young people, technology and the world of work.
Finally, we felt heard. Our diverse backgrounds and perspectives weren’t just acknowledged, they were actively valued. Rather than being dismissed, we were encouraged to draw on our experiences to shape a marketing strategy and client brief that reflected a range of voices and insights.
The client listened attentively, answered our questions openly, and took the time to address any concerns we raised, helping us feel confident and supported throughout the process. Like Agent Academy, they were warm and welcoming. They also offered us a tour of the building and a delicious lunch. Conversation flowed even after the meetings, as we discussed our ambitions for the live client project ahead!
Three Words, Endless Impact
If I had to summarise my experience with Agent Academy in three words, they would be: welcoming, informative and proactive.
Agent Academy has given me a glimpse into a world of work I’ve never seen before. My self-esteem has risen exponentially and I’m so excited for the journey ahead! The Rise Programme is a game-changer when it comes to equipping the next cohort of Gen Z talent with the skills and confidence needed to enter the workforce. For the first time, I’ve been able to express myself.
I have recommended the programme to all of my friends, and I would encourage anyone to do the same!
Interested in joining our next Rise cohort? Visit https://www.agentacademy.org.uk/rise/ to find out more.
