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Push yourself outside your comfort zone, they say. Tell that to me hiding in the toilets before chairing my first panel discussion. Here's what I found on the other side of the door.
Read the Article →Three years ago I sat in a hammock in the Amazon Jungle, contemplating my future. Here's what happened next — and why this award means everything.
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"Push yourself outside of your comfort zone" they say. Tell that to me hiding in the toilets before chairing my first panel discussion!
During this panel we explored the real question on everyone's lips… what is Gen Z really looking for in the workplace? Is it stylish furniture from Nowy Styl, flexible working or purpose and progression? Well, that depends on who you ask.
A real emphasis on belonging. Which brings me back to a common theme interweaved throughout all of my university reports: Kaizen. Just stay with me for a minute…
Kaizen is a Japanese philosophy of continuous improvement — but at its core, it's about listening to the people closest to the work. Those in the Gemba (the shop floor — bonus points if you knew that). Because when people feel heard, they feel valued. And when they feel valued, they find purpose in what they do. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to work that one out aye.
And maybe that's not surprising. We're a generation shaped by disruption — navigating GCSEs, A-levels and early careers through Covid, without the usual structure, support or social connection. So now, we're not just looking for jobs. We're looking for meaning. For contribution. For a voice.
So maybe the real question isn't "what does Gen Z want?" It's: are we creating environments where people feel they matter?
Goodness I can waffle… but I hope that gives you something to think about!
Three years ago, I sat in a hammock in the Amazon Jungle, contemplating my future. I knew I wanted to study Business Management but couldn't justify the student debt. I wanted a career with real growth — but not one confined to a desk. Most importantly, I wanted to inspire others who, like me, felt unsure of their next steps.
A few months later, I found my answer in the Facilities Management industry.
Now, two years into my degree apprenticeship at Thermatic Technical FM, I'm learning the foundations of business and FM and studying a Chartered Business Management degree simultaneously. Through university modules, I rotate across the business divisions in line with my course scope, producing assignments that apply directly to Thermatic's operations. This has allowed me to demonstrate both initiative and measurable impact, while contributing fresh ideas to the FM sector.
For example, in my distinction-graded Operations and Technology Management report, using academic theory applied in context, I was able to articulate the impact of an inefficient timesheet process — proposing an AI solution to enhance operational efficiency and free up time for higher-value tasks such as engineering management. That report prompted board-level discussions, and I'm now actively involved in the mobilisation of this project and the rollout of a new overtime policy. It wasn't just an assignment. It was a blueprint for real change.
I'm passionate about FM, which is evidenced through my voluntary roles within both the IWFM Rising Committee and Strategic Leaders Forum, where I actively promote FM as a career of choice. Recognising my enthusiasm and leadership qualities, the IWFM executive board invited me to chair the newly formed Young Persons Network — a platform for young professionals to connect, grow, and inspire others. A responsibility I don't take lightly.
That's why I created The CEO Blueprint: documenting the reality of success. Not the polished highlight reel — the real-time, honest account of what it actually takes. What I'm doing, how I'm growing, what I'm learning, and the day-to-day reality of building something from nothing. The purpose is simple: to inspire others to show up and be the best version of themselves.
Within Thermatic, I'm supported by a senior leadership team who actively create opportunities for me to observe and participate in strategic discussions. Alongside my degree apprenticeship, I plan to undertake a Level 6 Diploma in Facilities Management to deepen my technical knowledge of the sector.
In under two years within FM, I have already demonstrated measurable impact, innovation, and leadership — recognition of which is reflected in my IWFM Newcomer of the Year 2025 finalist nomination. This award is not just a milestone. It's proof that the blueprint is working.