MEET THE EMPLOYERS: Key Takeaways From Our Session

Our latest Facework Ukraine session brought together participants and employers from healthcare, media, food tech, creative industries, and the charity sector. The conversations were honest, personal, and deeply inspiring — for both sides.

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Here is what our employer guests learned from meeting our community, and the main advice they shared with participants.

Maisie Mitchell — Producer & Talent Manager, Film & TV

Takeaway:

“I recognised the same feelings I sometimes have in my own career — sending messages, applying, not hearing back, wondering if anyone sees you. You reminded me how much persistence matters.”

Advice:

“You’re warm, smart, open — use it. Talk to people directly as much as you can. Knock on doors, follow up, keep going. Eventually, someone opens.”

Dayinsola Oye — General Practice Nurse, NHS Southwark

Takeaway: “

You helped me realise how much knowledge and experience I actually have. When you start talking openly, you see your own strengths more clearly.”

Advice:

“Be brave, start conversations, open up. Everyone has something meaningful to offer — it begins with speaking out.”

Pete Sharman — Founder of THIS (Food Tech & Startups)

Takeaway:

“I realised how much I take for granted — understanding the UK job system, the networks, the cultural shortcuts. Hearing your stories gave me a new respect for how hard it is to rebuild everything from scratch.”

Advice:

“Be proud of what you’re doing. Most people who lived here all their lives would be amazed if they stopped to think how difficult this journey is. Use your resilience — it’s a strength.”

Sue Mitchell — Investigative Journalist, BBC

Takeaway:

“We often think our industry is hard to enter. But hearing what you’ve already done — and how you refuse to give up — shows the scale of the challenge you face and the determination you carry.”

Advice:

“Your effort is enormous, and it matters. Stay persistent — you’re already doing the hard part.”

Vicky Scott — CEO, Tower Hamlets CVS

Takeaway:

“I see how much many of you are struggling — but even more, I see your passion and determination.”

Advice:

“Keep going. With this kind of drive and clarity of purpose, you will get where you want to be. It’s always rewarding in the end.”

Amy Nicholson — Director (Futures), Crowd DNA

Takeaway:

“I kept asking myself what I would do differently in your place. And the answer was clear: don’t focus on what you’re not.”

Advice:

“Double down on who you are. Qualifications matter, but what truly stands out is face-to-face connection. Your stories, your values, your expertise — that’s your power. Show it.”

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