The past two weeks have been a complete whirlwind. I was preparing for the end of my time on the Taylor Bennett Foundation PR Training Programme when the world suddenly had to deal with the threats of a pandemic. Cue several online video conference calls and a lot of changing schedules.
However, the chaos of the past few weeks has summarised my ethos for the Taylor Bennett Foundation perfectly, the importance of never quitting. Despite being quarantined and unable to attend our last few masterclasses, Gabrielle and Melissa have ensured that we could gain all that we can the last few weeks.
I have learned a lot during my time with the Taylor Bennett Foundation, I have met so many amazing individuals and visited more agencies than I could have ever imagined. There have been so many important lessons which I will implement in my career moving forward. Most importantly, the significance of networking. The Taylor Bennett Foundation has an extensive alumni network, who has helped me consistently throughout my time on the programme. You are rarely able to access such a wealth of knowledge and experience from these many individuals. I have previously written about the issues surrounding diversity in the PR industry. It is refreshing to see so many people who have gone down the same TBF path, have such success in their respective fields.
The masterclasses. The Taylor Bennett Foundation has a lot of things that make it stand out, the masterclasses are just one of these aspects. Whether it was the interactive session at The Guardian or the practical advice given by PRCA, TBF ensures you truly gain an immersive experience. Not only can you network with more people than you could ever imagine but more importantly, you are accessing vast amounts of information from a range of companies. The opportunity is truly one of a kind and sets the Taylor Bennett Foundation PR Training Programme apart.
To my host agency, FTI Consulting. I have had the most amazing time working alongside FTI and I was lucky enough to receive two wonderful mentors. Every Thursday we had the chance to learn about a different section within the FTI Consulting Strategic Communications department. I cannot understate how important these sessions were for my personal development. Where else can you present to a Senior Managing Director in your first week, or get questioned ‘The Apprentice’ style? The HR team in combination with the TBF alums working at FTI ensured that we were always supported and well equipped to complete our tasks. Everyone was so accomodating and the culture of the company was just a breath of fresh air. I also want to extend a thank you to the FTI Consulting Brussels office. We had the opportunity to spend a week in Belgium, learning about public affairs and gaining real insight into the inner workings of the EU parliament. The whole experience was eye-opening and helped to highlight the global offerings of FTI Consulting.
I am proud to say that in September, I will be joining FTI Consulting as a Graduate Consultant. I cannot wait to get started!
Finally to my cohort,
I couldn’t imagine spending 10 weeks with any other group of people. I have to keep this brief because we all could rave about how much fun we’ve had. I truly feel like I have gained friends for life. We have all supported one another and I couldn’t be more proud for all that we have achieved. Thank you for being there for me through the ups and the downs (being sick during Brussels!). I know this isn’t goodbye, so there’s no need for niceties. However, I will miss seeing you all daily!
Thank you all for reading and to the next set of Taylor Bennett Foundation trainees, you are in safe hands and are in for one hell of a ride!
20/20 Vision 