It’s International Women’s Day tomorrow. This year’s theme is “For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” As two women who have built a business that we’re 100% passionate about, this is a message that we can get right behind. The UN Women’s website says “This is more than a celebration – it’s a call to action.” And “Change starts here, with you – and with empowering the next generation. We agree. And we’re here to support empowering the next generation. YOU! What better time to think about how you get started on your dream career?
We have career tips to get you started and also examples of exclusive learning opportunities over summer for female students. Pay particular attention to the Headington School Summer Boarding Courses where you can get a discount with our code!
Top tips for achieving your dream career
1. Set Clear Goals: Define what success looks like for you, whether it’s academic excellence, career ambitions, or personal growth.
Do your homework initially. Ask yourself what your strengths and passions are, what you find challenging and where you can improve. Break the goals down into manageable smaller goals that lead to the large end goal.
Use The SMART goal framework:
SPECIFIC – Be specific by breaking down what’s expected, its importance, where it’ll happen and which resources you’ll need to do it.
MEASURABLE – Instead of saying you’re going to read more, say you’re going to double the number of books you read each week.
ACHIEVABLE – Stretch yourself and aim high whilst still making it attainable.
RELEVANT – Goals should align with your values and long-term objectives. If languages are your strength, focus on achieving a goal which is relevant to that.
TIME-BOUND- Always give yourself a deadline. Deadlines ALWAYS help as you’ll be able to set yourself a timeline with more of a sense of urgency.
2. Seek Out Female Role Models: Learn from inspiring women in your field, whether through books, online talks, or mentorship opportunities.
A role model of ours is Zaha Hadid (1950-2016) of Zaha Hadid Architects. She was known as an architect who consistently pushed the boundaries of architecture and urban design. We like that. Never stand still. Keep growing and developing. Who can forget the the fluid geometry of the London Aquatics Center for the 2012 Summer Olympics? And when we were in Riyadh recently, we visited the sculptural centerpiece that is the brand new Metro in Riyadh – which was one of the last projects by the late architect herself (go see it if you haven’t already!)
Born in Iraq, Zaha initially studied maths before attending the Architectural Association School in London. Her pioneering vision redefined architecture for the 21st century, capturing imaginations globally. She was known for her futuristic designs and sweeping curves – using concrete, steel, and glass. Amongst many other accolades, she’s on the Forbes List of the ‘World’s Most Powerful Women,’ UNESDCO named Hadid as an ‘Artist for Peace’ and TIME magazine named her the world’s top thinker of 2010.
3. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Say yes to new experiences! Whether it’s joining a new course, leading a project, or studying abroad, growth happens outside your comfort zone.
Source useful platforms. Stemettes is a very good example. It’s an award-winning social enterprise working to engage, inform and connect the next generation of women into Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM). It’s UK based but actively works to inspire young women across Europe and beyond to pursue careers in STEM. They run free events, online and in-person, where you can do anything from getting your career questions answered and build your network, to getting certified in Python and cybersecurity. You can discover STEAM experts that you can follow. You can also volunteer with Stemettes. Challenge yourself by becoming a mentor, be a panellist or keynote speaker.
Another idea we like is to get involved in reverse mentoring. Reverse mentoring is a practice in schools where a student or recent graduate mentors a senior academic or leader. It can help break down generational barriers and improve innovation and diversity.
4. Build a Strong Network: Surround yourself with supportive friends, mentors, and peers who empower you to succeed.
We conduct our business as a partnership. Our skills are complementary to each other, we can share the workload and we can spark ideas off one another. Equally, wherever you are in your learning, you could also collaborate with someone. For example, there are many benefits to studying with a friend. You’re accountable to more than just yourself – meaning less chance of you getting distracted by your phone! Your friend will no doubt have different viewpoints than you, so this will improve your understanding, your listening and debating skills. And it’ll be helpful in critical-thinking, idea generation, and creative problem-solving.
Another great idea is to start networking on LinkedIn to not only network with your peers, but with individuals within your chosen field. Don’t just connect up and/or follow them. But actively engage! Join relevant business groups on there and actively post from your profile. This is a good rule to follow throughout your career.
5. Invest in Your Skills: Take advantage of learning opportunities, from training apps, language courses to leadership workshops, to build confidence and independence.
Some ideas include:
SCIENTISTS – Joining STEM clubs at school and participating in science fairs.
FOOTBALL LOVERS – Signing up to apps such as pro football training app Train Effective. Train Effective enables its members to experience professional academy-like football training at home.
FOR THOSE WANTING TO BUILD LEADERSHIP SKILLS – Take a look at the amazing Immerse Education’s Female Future Leaders course right below!
Exclusive summer programmes for female students
Want to know the best in summer programme this summer? Keep reading.
Immerse Education’s Female Future Leaders course
If you want to refine and build on your leadership skills, the Immerse Education’s Female Future Leaders course is an entirely unique interdisciplinary experience that’s highly recommended. It’s a 2 week summer girls only programme in Cambridge for students aged 16 – 18.
This Academic Pathway is designed to foster your leadership skills and prepare you for future challenges. Think rigorous leadership workshops, strategic thinking exercises and theoretical exploration of the philosophies and principles behind gender equity, fostering the foundational knowledge and skills essential for excelling as a future leader.
Engage in leadership workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking events that empower you to make a significant impact.
You’ll get 1-on-1 Tutoring, Group Workshops, a Personal Research Project, Expert Seminars, Day Excursions and a Certificate of Achievement on completion.
The Young Architect Summer Experience summer school at UCL
If you’re an aspiring architect, we recommend 2 week The Young Architect Summer Experience summer school at UCL in London for students aged 15-18.
Through a range of immersive career simulations and exclusive professional site visits to the Barbican and Foster & Partners. You will visit leading architecture firms, design your own sustainable structure and pitch your ideas to a panel of architects in an iconic London venue. Plus, gain a qualification to boost your university application.
Highlights of the course include:
- Experience one of the top universities: University College London (UCL).
- Meet senior architects from world-renowned firms specialising in residential, commercial, urban design and more.
- Having your work assessed in order to receive a Level 3 Award in Work Experience & Career Planning, equating to 8 UCAS points.
- A personalised certificate and industry reference letter outlining what you have achieved on the programme.
Heathfield School’s Creative & Sports summer academies for international female students
Are you too creative for the corporate world or have a passion for sports? Heathfield School in Ascot run a multitude of high-quality creative and sports summer academies for international students aged 8 – 17. Their girls only programmes have been developed to provide the best all-round English educational experience possible for their participating students.
The academies on offer include:
- English Plus+
- Creative (including Cookery, Fashion, Photography)
- Golf
- Horse Riding
- Multi-Sports (including Tennis, Football and Volleyball)
- Tennis
- Water Sports – Kayaking and Paddleboarding
- Football
These academies give you the opportunity to undertake a wide range of fun-packed academic and co-curricular activities. With an emphasis on fun. Their Social Programme includes discos, festivals, talent shows, fashion and dance shows, house team events and games and quizzes.
Future Global Leaders at Headington Oxford Summer School
Future Global Leaders at Headington Oxford Summer School in Oxford is a 2 week dynamic programme designed for students, aged 13 – 16, who are passionate about making a difference in the world.
Recognising the importance of developing leadership skills and global awareness in today’s interconnected society. This course provides a foundation in international relations, leadership, and social impact, preparing you to become a thoughtful and effective leader on the global stage. Whether you’re interested in politics, diplomacy, or social entrepreneurship, Future Global Leaders will equip you with the tools to lead with purpose and vision.
Modules include:
1. Introduction to Global Issues and International Relations
2. Leadership Skills and Decision Making
3. Social Impact and Community Building
You will strengthen your reflective skills, self-awareness and self-confidence. Enhance your communication and presentation skills as well as your appreciation of the world’s most influential figures. Plus learn how to lead a team through a challenge to a successful outcome.
Apply directly here with discount code: panoba10
The Future Scientists (STEM) course at Headington Oxford Summer School
If you have career aspirations in science, The Future Scientists (STEM) course at Headington Oxford Summer School in Oxford is a 2 week course for students aged 13 – 16. It’s designed to inspire and prepare the next generation of innovators in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
This programme offers an immersive experience where theory meets practice, providing you with the opportunity to conduct experiments, engage in scientific research, and explore cutting-edge developments in various STEM fields. There’s a strong emphasis on investigative learning, encouraging you to question, experiment, and discover. Whether you’re fascinated by the intricacies of biology, the laws of physics, or the possibilities of technology, you will have the chance to delve into these areas under the guidance of inspirational educators and scientists.
Modules include:
1. Understanding the Natural World
2. Exploring the World of Chemistry
3. Investigating Physical Science
The interactive activities that encourage you to ask questions, test your ideas, and think critically. There’ll be opportunities to apply and share your knowledge gained through dynamic ‘Time To Shine’ group projects, culminating in an end-of-the-week ceremony in which you can present your innovative ideas to your peers.
You build confidence in your scientific abilities while fostering a lifelong love of learning.
Apply directly here with discount code: panoba10
The Arsenal Football Development programme by Exportise
If your goal is to become a professional football player, The Arsenal Football Development programme in association with Arsenal Football Development Coaching is the best youth football academy in the UK. The programme is for students aged 9 – 17. There are girls only camps as well as courses for both girls and boys.
The programme offers students of all abilities the opportunity to enhance their football skills while learning to “Play the Arsenal Way”.
Arsenal Football Development Head Coaches are UEFA qualified and all other coaches hold a minimum of a UEFA licence coaching qualification, along with the English Football Association Youth coaching certification.
Development areas:
1. Effective Team Player – Technical and Tactical Solutions.
2. Efficient Mover – Ability to move well and sustain throughout.
3. Lifelong Learner – Adopt a learning mindset to seek consistent and continuous improvement.
4. Champion Mentality – Seize each moment to maximise your potential.
You will make progress in the technical, tactical, physical, mental and social aspects of football. Developing life skills as well as football skills. Building your confidence.
In conclusion
Celebrate your potential, and, as the theme for IWD 2025 also says “Be the catalyst for lasting transformation.” Take action now and become the trailblazers and changemakers that bring about gender equality.
We’re Panoba and we provide access to exclusive learning opportunities for female students at the best prices. Contact us with any questions you have about the above.
Sources
https://www.fearlesslygirl.com/blog/how-to-encourage-girls-to-set-and-achieve-goals-this-school-year
https://www.zaha-hadid.com/people/zaha-hadid/
https://stemettes.org/
https://medium.com/@MyLeanMBA/8-benefits-of-studying-with-friends-d974bc34947c
