MAIKAI AND SMBP JOIN FORCES TO ACCELERATE SOCIAL MOBILITY IN THE WORKPLACE

‘Breaking Barriers’ is the new programme for aspiring young talent from low-income backgrounds

London, 27 May: Maikai, the social impact agency that uses the power of education to drive positive change in society, has joined forces with the Social Mobility Business Partnership (SMBP) to create ‘Breaking Barriers’, a programme that will offer opportunities for under resourced young people through the provision of the latest skills needed in the workplace.

SMBP is a volunteer-led charity which brings together over 200 professional services firms, commercial organisations and professional sports teams - including Linklaters, BT, Pennon Group and Formula 1- committed to supporting students from low-income backgrounds pursue top careers and ensure that they thrive. By giving young people access to work experience, they provide them with an invaluable opportunity to gain insights into working at some of the country’s leading businesses.

Today's partnership announcement means ‘Breaking Barriers’ can now enhance its support further by placing alumni of the programme into apprenticeship schemes, while giving them the hard and soft skills and mentorship support that will allow their careers to flourish. Together, the two organisations will level the playing field for aspiring employees of the future, ensuring career success is defined by potential not privilege.

“Talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not”, said David Ellis, CEO and co-founder of Maikai. “By working with SMBP, we can help bridge the gap between ambition and access, ensuring that individuals from all backgrounds have the chance to develop the skills they need to succeed.”

“SMBP strives to inspire, upskill and coach the talented students we work with”, said Jess Clarkson, Managing Director of SMBP. “This partnership with Maikai will provide our alumni students with that pivotal first rung on their career ladder and for the businesses we work with, the opportunity to transform their talent puddle to a talent pool.”

To find out more about getting your company involved with ‘Breaking Barriers' please contact Richard Cotton at Richard.cotton@maikai.org or Jess Clarkson at jess@smbp.org.uk.