Chartered Banker Institute and EY Foundation – The Summer Smart Futures Programme starts today
Chartered Banker Institute and the EY Foundation have kicked off the Summer Smart Futures Programme for young people aged 16-18.
The programme started on Monday 24th July with 18 young people taking part. The Summer Smart Futures Programme challenges young people between 16-18 to take part in two weeks of activities, including interview and communication skills, work experience, and a Dragons’ Den style challenge, designed to build confidence and provide an insight into the banking industry.
Students have the opportunity to develop their employability skills, build on their inter-personal skills and meet with professionals from a range of sectors within banking, including CEO’s.
During the first day of the programme, students are introduced to the Chartered Banker Institute, the 2025 Foundation and the EY Foundation, with workshops being led by volunteers throughout the day. We also welcomed Ayisha Abid, who completed the 2022 programme. She talked of her experience since taking part and offered advice to the young people. Ayisha has also been a keen advocate of the Smart Futures Programmes for the Chartered Banker Institute.
Over the next week, students will develop their employability skills, communication skills, CV writing skills, learn self-reflection skills and will present a research piece to a panel of judges.
Our thanks goes to the EY Foundation for delivering the programme, the five banks supporting the programme, the volunteers who deliver the sessions and to all of our mentors who will support our young people for the next six – twelve months.
The Chartered Banker Institute uses funds raised through the 2025 Foundation to run two programmes a year. Our aim is to change lives by opening-up opportunities to pursue a career in banking to those who would not otherwise have this opportunity or who would not consider such a career. It is a great opportunity for financial services organisations to become involved in supporting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them work as part of team, building their confidence, and consider today’s banking challenges. It also brings fresh perspectives and other benefits to participating employees.
To find out more about the Smart Future Programme, and to follow along with the programme, please check our social media pages for updates here.
To find out how to support the 2025 Foundation, click here.
Pictured - Ayisha Abid, 2022 Programme Graduate