Thrive Social Career Networking Event at Sheffield Hallam University: A Landmark Success

Our careers event in collaboration with Student Career Compass, Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield was a resounding success, bringing together talent, industry, Yorkshire-wide universities and opportunity at scale.

We had global organisations including BBC, Microsoft, Deloitte, Amazon Web Services, CBRE, NatWest Group, Kier Group and RSM UK in attendance.

We were supported by South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Hub.

We welcomed over 657 attendees in person, with an incredible 85% from ethnic minority backgrounds, demonstrating both the demand for inclusive provision and the importance of accessible career opportunities.

The reach extended far beyond the venue, with over 3,348 participants joining online and 3 international universities involved, making this a truly impactful hybrid event connecting communities across the region and beyond.

Powered by Strong Partnerships

This event was delivered in collaboration with leading organisations and institutions, including:

• BBC
• Microsoft
• Deloitte
• Amazon Web Services
• CBRE
• NatWest Group
• Kier Group
• RSM UK
• South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority
• South Yorkshire Apprenticeship Hub

We were also proud to work alongside our university partners, including:

• Sheffield Hallam University
• University of Sheffield Management School

Special thanks to our media and delivery partners, including Eski Media, and to all organisations who contributed to making this event a success.

Real Impact, Real Opportunities

Participants benefited from:

• Direct engagement with global employers
• Live mock interviews and CV support
• Insight into multiple career pathways
• Business start-up advice and entrepreneurial guidance
• Meaningful networking with industry professionals

Looking Ahead

The scale, diversity and engagement seen at this event highlight the urgent need to continue investing in community-led, high-impact initiatives. We are excited to build on this momentum, deepen our partnerships and deliver even greater opportunities for communities across South Yorkshire and beyond.

Empowering Youth Voices: Our Youth Advisory Board Partnership

At the heart of our work is a commitment to amplifying the voices of young people, creating meaningful opportunities for them to influence, lead and thrive.

Through our Youth Advisory Board, delivered in partnership with Eski Media, young people gain hands-on experience, develop key skills and actively shape conversations that impact their futures.

A Platform to Be Heard

This initiative goes beyond traditional engagement. It provides young people with a genuine seat at the table, ensuring their voices are not only heard but valued in decision-making spaces.

Participants are supported to:

• Build confidence and communication skills
• Share lived experiences and perspectives
• Engage with professionals across media, business and community sectors
• Contribute to projects that directly impact their communities

In Partnership with “Walk In My Shoes”

Working alongside Walk In My Shoes through the South Yorkshire Women’s Network, this programme creates a safe, inclusive and empowering space, particularly for young people from underrepresented backgrounds.

This collaboration enables us to:

• Provide mentorship from experienced professionals
• Support personal development and wellbeing
• Encourage exploration of leadership and advocacy roles
• Break down barriers to participation and progression

Creating Real Opportunities

By combining media expertise from Eski Media with community-led support via the South Yorkshire Women’s Network, we are bridging the gap between potential and opportunity.

Young people benefit from:

• Practical, real-world experience
• Access to mentorship and professional guidance
• Opportunities to influence meaningful projects
• A platform to share their stories and shape narratives

Collocation/Codelivery Pilot Project: A Collaborative Model for Community Impact

We are proud to be piloting an innovative Collocation Model in partnership with key stakeholders including the NHS, Integrated Care Board, Citizens Advice Doncaster, Work Well and the Department for Work and Pensions.

This pilot brings services together within a shared community setting, creating a co-located, co-delivered approach that is already proving highly effective.

A Joined-Up Approach That Works

By delivering multiple services from within a single accessible location, including GP practices and community hubs, we are making it easier for individuals to access the support they need, when they need it.

This model enables:

• Seamless access to health, welfare and employment support
• Improved communication between partner organisations
• Faster, more holistic support for individuals and families
• Stronger, more connected community networks

Reducing Pressure, Increasing Impact

One of the key successes of this pilot is its ability to reduce pressure on NHS services by addressing wider social and economic needs at the point of contact.

By supporting individuals with issues such as:

• Employment and skills
• Benefits and financial advice
• Social wellbeing and community connection

We are helping to tackle the root causes of demand on health services, not just the symptoms.

Building Stronger Communities Through Collaboration

This pilot demonstrates the power of true partnership working. By aligning the expertise of health services, local authorities and community organisations, we are:

• Breaking down barriers to access
• Promoting early intervention and prevention
• Empowering individuals to take control of their circumstances
• Strengthening trust within communities

A Model for the Future

The success of this co-located delivery approach highlights a scalable model that can be expanded across other areas. It is a clear example of how collaboration, accessibility and community-led delivery can drive meaningful change, improving outcomes for individuals while creating a more sustainable system for all.

A Meaningful Collaboration with Sheffield United Community Foundation

We are proud to be working in meaningful partnership with the Sheffield United Community Foundation to deliver impactful, community-driven initiatives that create real and lasting change.

This partnership is built on a shared commitment to supporting communities, promoting inclusion and driving forward sustainability-focused projects that benefit both people and the environment.

Supporting Communities Together

By combining our strengths, we are able to reach deeper into communities and provide tailored support where it is needed most.

Together, we are:

• Engaging underserved and underrepresented groups
• Building stronger, more connected communities

Driving Sustainability and Social Impact

A key focus of this partnership is the development of sustainability-led initiatives that empower communities while promoting long-term environmental and social responsibility.

Through collaborative projects, we are:

• Encouraging sustainable practices within communities
• Embedding sustainability into community development

Creating Lasting Change

This is more than a partnership, it is a shared vision to create opportunities, reduce inequalities and build resilient communities.

By working together, we are able to deliver innovative, high-impact initiatives that not only support individuals today but also contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future for South Yorkshire.

Looking Ahead

We are excited to continue growing this partnership and expanding our reach, ensuring that more individuals and communities can benefit from collaborative, purpose-driven initiatives that truly make a difference.

We were proud to have our Founder, Hannah Din, who also serves as Chair of the South Yorkshire Women’s Network, a powerful community of nearly 700 senior leaders, at the forefront of this year’s International Women’s Day celebration.

Chaired by Hannah, the South Yorkshire Women’s Inspired event brought together influential leaders, changemakers and emerging voices from across the region in a dynamic and purposeful gathering.

A defining highlight of the event was the creation of a powerful platform for our young women from the Youth Advisory Board. They took to the stage in an inspiring panel alongside senior leaders, including Katharine Hammond, CEO of the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, and Mayor Ros Jones.

This was more than a panel, it was a statement. A unique opportunity for young women to be seen, heard and positioned at the right tables, confidently sharing their perspectives, lived experiences and future ambitions.

The event powerfully reflected our commitment to breaking down barriers and amplifying underrepresented voices. We are intentional about ensuring that the next generation of female leaders are not just included in the conversation, but are actively shaping it.