Bridging Barriers: Unlocking Opportunities for Young People

At Ultimately Uni, we are passionate about supporting young people on their journey to success. That’s why we are shining a spotlight on Bridging Barriers, the UK’s leading social mobility charity that is transforming lives by helping young people from underrepresented backgrounds achieve career success.

What is Bridging Barriers?

Bridging Barriers is dedicated to empowering young people aged 16-25 by providing them with the skills, networks, and confidence to access the career opportunities they rightfully deserve. Many of these individuals face challenges due to a lack of access to professional networks, making it difficult to break into competitive industries. As job referrals become more common in today’s professional landscape, the saying “It’s not what you know, but who you know” rings truer than ever.

The Turning Point Programme: Paving the Way for Success

To combat these challenges, Bridging Barriers runs the Turning Point Programme, a comprehensive initiative designed to make young people work-ready. The programme offers:

• 1:1 Career Mentoring – Pairing young people with experienced professionals in their chosen fields.

• Virtual Masterclasses – Providing valuable insights into different industries and career pathways.

• Networking Events & Employer Insight Days – Giving young people first-hand exposure to professional environments.

  

  Canary Wharf, London - Can you see yourself here?

For many of the programme participants, the corporate world can feel like a distant reality. Take Canary Wharf, for example—one of the UK’s leading financial hubs. Many young people live just minutes away from it, yet without the right connections, stepping inside those skyscrapers can seem impossible. Bridging Barriers changes that. When mentees visit offices and corporate settings, they are reminded by their mentor, Kevin: “Take it in—this is going to be your reality soon!”

Two Cohorts, Countless Opportunities

The Turning Point Programme runs twice a year, in February and October, ensuring a continuous cycle of support for young people eager to break into competitive job markets.

How You Can Get Involved

Bridging Barriers is always looking for mentors and mentees to join their vibrant and supportive community. Whether you’re a professional looking to give back or a young person eager to take control of your career, this is your chance to be part of something truly transformative.

• Become a Mentor: Share your expertise, guide a young person, and help them navigate the world of work.

• Become a Mentee: Gain the industry knowledge, employability skills, and confidence to tap into career opportunities.

Here at Ultimately Uni, we resonate deeply with Bridging Barriers’ mission. Our goal is to help as many young people as possible achieve their dreams, and we believe that access, education, role models, reflection and self-belief are the ultimate keys to success.

Ultimate Tip: Believe in Yourself!

The most powerful tool for success is self-belief. You must have confidence in yourself- even to the point where others might think you’re being delusional! Set your goals, take intentional action, and never stop believing that you belong in the spaces you aspire to be in.

Ready to take the next step? Visit Bridging Barriers online through their website, LinkedIn, and Instagram to learn more and get involved today!

Written by Ultimately Uni in collaboration with Bridging Barriers