We’ve recently joined the upReach Professional Mentoring Programme, supporting social mobility by mentoring university students from underrepresented and lower socio-economic backgrounds as they prepare for professional careers.
We’re grateful to LIIBA (London & International Insurance Brokers’ Association) for making the introduction and connecting us with the programme.
As part of the programme, Julie and Sharon are looking forward to acting as shared mentors, supporting a mentee over a six-month period.
Who Are upReach?
upReach is an award-winning social mobility charity that has been working since 2012 to help students realise their career potential, regardless of background.
They partner with universities and employers to support over 3,000 students each year, many of whom are:
- the first in their family to attend university.
- from low-income households.
- without access to established professional networks.
Despite strong academic achievement, these students often face structural barriers when entering competitive professional sectors. upReach exists to help level that playing field.
Why Mentoring Makes a Difference
Mentoring can play a critical role in addressing the social mobility gap.
For students without existing industry connections, having access to a professional mentor can help them:
- understand how industries really work
- build confidence and commercial awareness
- improve applications, CVs and interview skills
- develop professional behaviours and networks
- make more informed career decisions
The upReach programme is structured, purposeful and outcomes-focused, with mentors and mentees meeting regularly and working towards clearly defined goals.
Our Role as Mentors
Julie and Sharon will mentor a student over a six-month period, meeting for around one to two hours each month.
Together, they are hoping to provide:
- insight into careers within the London insurance market
- practical support with applications, CVs and interviews
- guidance on professional skills and workplace confidence
The London Market depends on specialist knowledge, collaboration and long-term thinking.
This is one small but meaningful way that gpm can contribute to building a more inclusive, sustainable future for the market we work in every day.
We look forward to being matched with our mentee and sharing more about the journey as the programme progresses.
If you’re interested in also getting involved please get in touch and we can point you in the right direction.