Progressing Through My Industry: Henry
Posted on: 6 November 2024 by Kalbir Cross in Class of 2023
Henry Ibeneme is a Class of 2023 Computer Science graduate who is now working as a Generative AI Consultant at Blenheim Chalcot (Seconded to Koodoo).
How did you hear about your role and decide to apply for it?
I discovered Blenheim Chalcot and its portfolio companies through LinkedIn, which presented a unique opportunity to blend the experience of working for a large corporation with the dynamic environment of a start-up. As I'm seconded to one of their ventures - Koodoo, I get to experience both worlds simultaneously.
What truly convinced me this was the right move for my career was their strong conviction in AI, which permeates throughout all their ventures. This alignment with my interests and career goals in AI made it clear that Blenheim Chalcot was the ideal place for me at this stage of my professional journey. The combination of corporate backing and start-up innovation, coupled with their focus on AI, provided the perfect environment for my growth.
How did you get to where you are now?
Navigating the path to professional success isn't as convoluted is only as complicated as you choose to make it. The key to my journey thus far has been a clear, unwavering vision for my career and myself. With this guiding me, I've been able to reverse-engineer my path, aligning each decision with my goals.
One aspect that played a particularly crucial role in my recent opportunity has been my extracurricular projects. Outside of my day-to-day work, I've enjoyed developing and learning about AI-driven products, keeping my finger on the pulse of the latest technological advancements.
In regards to recruitment: experience and education form the foundation of any successful application. They're the bare minimum that gets your foot in the door, granting you visibility during the application process. However, I've found that the real differentiator comes once you're face-to-face with decision-makers. It's your ability to create a compelling narrative from your experiences that truly sets you apart. This was something I had to learn and practice during my time applying to new roles.
Looking back, certain experiences stand out as pivotal in shaping my journey. My Bright Network internship with Google was a game-changer, opening doors and expanding my professional network in ways I couldn't have imagined. Similarly, my time at Lusis Payments as a software engineer was my first real foray into the professional world, laying a solid foundation for my tech career.
Throughout this journey, I've been fortunate to have the support of mentors, colleagues, and friends who've provided guidance, encouragement, and opportunities for growth.
All in, while the path to success may seem daunting, I've found that with a clear vision, strategic decision-making, and a willingness to seize opportunities, it's entirely achievable. It's about creating your narrative, leveraging your unique experiences/skills, and staying committed to continuous growth and learning.
Your favourite experience as part of your role?
So far it has been the Generative AI course that we have undertaken. Learning how to build AI chatbots for a variety of use cases and implement cutting-edge technologies and concepts like RAG. We have a lot of programs like this that run throughout the graduate scheme.
The most challenging part of your graduate journey?
The most challenging part so far was probably finding the balance between working and applying for roles. It can be so difficult at times that people choose to remain where they are
Top 3 Tips for current students and graduates.
- Have an unwavering vision and belief in yourself
- Be personable
- Prepare as much as you can
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Keywords: Graduate, Class of 2023, I Got Hired, Progressing, Graduate Outcomes.