I went on to study at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, graduating in 2011, and have since built a varied career across theatre, radio and live events. I now work freelance as a presenter, voiceover artist and choir director, and have performed internationally and at major events, including the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony.

I went on to achieve top A Level results and progressed to study Law at the University of Birmingham. Since then, I’ve built a successful career in banking and finance, and I’m now Head of Credit Risk Policy and Governance at a corporate bank. I credit my time at college with transforming my self-belief and showing me that there are no limits to what I could achieve.

I studied Business, Media Studies and English Language at City of Wolverhampton College from 1997–1999. College gave me independence and confidence, helping me develop key life skills while confirming my passion for business. Lessons from my tutors—especially around business fundamentals and communication—have stayed with me throughout my career.

I went on to study Marketing and Business Management at university before building my own successful cake business, becoming known as a “cake maker to the stars” and working with high-profile clients. I now share my journey through talks and events, encouraging others to pursue their ambitions, even if they don’t yet have it all figured out.

I currently work in children’s services, supporting young people aged 4–18 with learning difficulties, Autism and ADHD. Alongside this, I continue baking in my spare time and showcase my work on Instagram, and I’m considering returning to college to develop my cooking and cheffing skills further.

I studied Engineering at City of Wolverhampton College from 1996–1998 after leaving school without GCSEs. I completed a specialist BTEC programme for women in engineering, gaining skills in areas such as mechanical engineering and fabrication.

I went on to secure a technical apprenticeship with Recal UK Products Ltd and built a successful career in engineering, contributing to major projects before later moving into banking. I’ve received multiple recognitions, including a Queen’s Award, and continue to advocate for careers in engineering.

I went on to achieve my A Levels and progress to university—something I had never previously considered. My time at college was life‑changing, opening up new opportunities and giving me the confidence and direction that shaped my future.

I’ve since started a Law degree at Birmingham City University and plan to qualify as a Family Law Solicitor and Human Rights Advocate. I credit the support from my tutors for helping me rebuild my confidence and develop the skills needed to succeed, and I would encourage anyone considering the course to take that first step.

I completed the Early Years Services (Childcare) Foundation Degree at City of Wolverhampton College and then progressed to a top‑up course at the University of Wolverhampton to achieve a BA (Hons) in Childhood and Family Studies. The course strengthened my passion for lifelong learning and gave me the confidence to aim higher in my career.

It helped me connect theory with practice and develop a deeper understanding of education, inclusion and supporting children and families. With excellent tutor support and flexible learning, I’ve grown into a more confident and informed professional, and I’m now focused on advocating for inclusion and SEN in my future career.

Returning later in life allowed me to sharpen my skills and gain the industry knowledge I needed to progress into journalism. My time at college played a key role in both my personal development and career, giving me the confidence, experience and direction to pursue work in the media industry.

I now work across the UK, specialising in live theatre, events, dance and music, collaborating with major venues, festivals and television production companies.