Laura-Jane Rawlings MBE, CEO of Youth Employment UK - Part 1

Laura Jane Rawlings, MBE, the dynamic founder and CEO of Youth Employment UK, joins us to shed light on the powerful impact of incorporating young voices in employment policy-making. Through her inspiring narrative, Laura highlights the organization's mission and the significance of their annual Youth Voice Census, which offers a detailed look at the experiences and challenges faced by young people, especially from minority groups. We also touch on her thought-provoking publication, "The Labels We Give Young People," which critiques societal views on youth and offers actionable insights into supporting them effectively.

Navigating the complex landscape of funding and partnerships, Laura shares candid insights into the obstacles her organization faces, including the struggle for financial backing without established funder relationships. She emphasizes the critical role of a commercial model for social enterprises and the importance of collaboration across government, private, and third sectors. Our discussion also covers strategic alliances with entities like the Careers and Enterprise Company and the National Citizen Service, all while stressing the evolving role of schools in providing customized career advice to our youth.

In the final segment, Laura delves into the disparities in youth employment support, sharing poignant personal stories that underscore the need for individualized interventions. She discusses the profound impact parental support—or lack thereof—can have on a young person's career path and calls for more comprehensive support systems, particularly for those in care. We wrap up by exploring the effects of government policies on youth employment and the importance of cohesive, integrated strategies to create a supportive environment for young people. Through it all, Laura's dedication to becoming a better leader and her reliance on her senior team shine through, illustrating her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of young people.

What is Canny Conversations Podcast by Safaraz Ali?

Canny Conversations Podcast by Safaraz Ali Social Entrepreneur, CEO of Pathway Group and proud Birmingham business leader, where he shares his insights and experiences on entrepreneurialism, having a growth mindset and getting the best out of people as well as useful information to help your grow your business, develop and build your team.

Canny Conversations has now completed over 50 episodes making an impact on UK business Podcasts and demonstrating how sustainable business can benefit. In the third series Safaraz speaks with journalist Adrian Kibbler as well as some great guests sharing their thoughts and insights. In the fourth series Safaraz shares his own individual thoughts again.

Canny conversations are intended to challenge and cannily captivate. Let us know if they do or otherwise!

The topics covered in these conversations range from individual biographies & life stories to industry specific conversations as well as all things self development, enterprise & entrepreneurship and that’s just for starters. Previously we have received very good feedback on a number of our podcasts with topics such as; the importance of people, how to recruit them and get the best from them. It explores what makes a good leader and how to build strong teams within a winning culture.

‘Don’t expect to agree with everything but remain open and challenged. There is plenty to ‘chew on’ as Safaraz might say.

Safaraz Ali is the author of Canny Bites books, the fourth book being the lates titled: ‘Successfully Scale Up or Exit Your Business’ which helps business owners and leaders know exactly what they need to consider when growing their business. It’s a workbook and a checklist for entrepreneurs to help put the foundations in place ensuring they have the right toolkits to make scaling an easier task.

https://safaraz.co.uk/