Empowering Glasgow's Youth: Aon's Work Insights Program Expands Opportunities in Finance and Professional Services

Aon plc, a leading professional services firm, has welcomed 16 Glasgow-area students to its 2024 Work Insights Programme, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at boosting social mobility and providing valuable experience in the finance and professional services sector for young individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

Unlocking Doors to a Brighter Future

Bridging the Gap: Aon's Commitment to Social Mobility

Aon's Work Insights Programme is a testament to the firm's unwavering commitment to social mobility and creating equal opportunities for young people from diverse backgrounds. By targeting 16 to 17-year-old students from lower socio-economic backgrounds, the program aims to expose them to the dynamic world of finance and professional services, a sector that has traditionally been perceived as inaccessible to many.The program's focus on providing hands-on experience and insights into various career pathways within the industry is a strategic move to empower these students and broaden their horizons. Through a comprehensive curriculum that includes real-workplace challenges, speed networking sessions, panel discussions, and workshops on CV and interview skills, the participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry and the skills required to thrive in it.

Expanding Representation: Aon's Diversity Initiatives

Aon's dedication to increasing the representation of individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds across its business is a key driver behind the Work Insights Programme. By partnering with state-funded schools in Glasgow, the firm has ensured that the program reaches the students who would benefit the most, adopting a selection process that considers diversity statistics such as the percentage of free school meals in a given area.This targeted approach not only provides opportunities for the participants but also aligns with Aon's broader diversity and inclusion initiatives. By fostering a more diverse and inclusive workforce, the firm aims to better reflect the communities it serves and unlock the full potential of its talent pool.

Empowering the Next Generation: Inspiring Career Aspirations

The Work Insights Programme has already demonstrated its impact, with 82% of students surveyed after last year's inaugural program confirming that they were likely to consider a career in finance and professional services. This remarkable statistic underscores the program's ability to inspire and ignite the career aspirations of the participants.By exposing these young individuals to the diverse range of roles and career pathways within the industry, the program empowers them to envision themselves as future professionals, breaking down the perceived barriers and opening up new possibilities. The hands-on experience and the opportunity to engage with Aon's colleagues across various roles further solidify the participants' understanding of the industry and the potential for personal and professional growth.

Fostering Collaboration and Mentorship

The success of the Work Insights Programme is not solely attributed to Aon's efforts, but also to the invaluable contributions of its dedicated colleagues. The program would not be possible without the volunteers from Aon's Glasgow office who have generously dedicated their time and expertise to deliver the comprehensive curriculum.These Aon professionals serve as mentors and role models, sharing their experiences and insights with the participants. This collaborative approach not only enhances the learning experience but also fosters a sense of community and support, further empowering the students to envision themselves as future industry leaders.

Expanding Reach and Impact

The Work Insights Programme's expansion to 16 students in Glasgow, up from 12 in the previous year, is a testament to the program's growing impact and Aon's commitment to scaling its reach. By engaging with a wider network of state-funded schools, the firm is ensuring that the program's benefits are accessible to an even greater number of young individuals who can benefit the most.As the program continues to evolve and expand, Aon's vision is to create a lasting legacy of empowered and inspired young professionals who will shape the future of the finance and professional services industry. By investing in the next generation, the firm is not only contributing to individual success stories but also driving systemic change and fostering a more diverse and inclusive workforce.