Global Careers Calls

Empowering Through Coaching: Kamladevi Sharma's Journey in Entrepreneurship 24.06.2026 23min

In this last episode of the 16th season, host Rosie Baber interviews Kamladevi Sharma, University of London alumna and founder of Revive Coach, about her work in coaching and corporate training. Sharma describes a 10-year corporate background, leaving a management role to focus on her family, and building her business through referrals and her corporate reputation. She explains “sustainable success” as achieving career and life goals without burnout. She discusses customized B2B trainings and speak about the role of AI in coaching.Key points:[01:10] - Meet Kamladevi Sharma[02:40] Why Coaching and Business[07:25] Defining Sustainable Success[10:30] Landing First Clients[12:15] Building an Evolving Brand[16:04] B2B Corporate Training[17:51] Advice for New Consultants[20:21] Will AI Replace Coaches[22:09] Closing and Where to Listen Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Entrepreneur You: From Thrifting to Exotiq, Ali Ajmal on E-Commerce Growth, Funding, and Staying Relevant 17.06.2026 29min

In this episode our host Rosie Baber interviews Ali Ajmal, University of London LLB alumnus, founder of the e-commerce Exotiq Group and also mentor for students at Beaconhouse International College. Ali shares how he discovered entrepreneurship through a thrift-selling venture, then launched Exotiq selling 400 octopus plushies in his first month during COVID. He explains how he researched and retained Gen Z customers using interactive Instagram content, contests, pop-ups, and giveaways. Ali shares tips on how to manage the relationship with investor and the importance of keeping friendships separate from business. He highlights common startup mistakes—lack of consistency, teamwork issues, and poorly managed risk—along with advice on customer personas, branding, competitor research, influencer fit, and balancing work-life harmony and mental health.Key points:[01:25] -Presentation of Ali Ajmal[02:19] - Starting Exotiq[04:18] - Keeping Gen Z Buzz[06:28] - Bootstrapping and Investors[10:45] - Mentoring Startup Pitfalls[12:59] - Risk and Burnout[16:02] - Launch Strategy Basics[19:24] - Influencer Marketing[21:15] - Staying Competitive with AI[25:30] - Work Life Harmony Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Entrepreneur You- Building and Scaling an IT Business with Royson Rajan 10.06.2026 26min

In today’s episode our host Rosie Baber speaks with Royson Rajan, based in India and founder of 2 IT companies: Atlas SoftWeb and CrossTrip. Royson will talk about his entrepreneurship journey after studying computer engineering and earning a graduate diploma in management from LSE (University of London). Royson shares how IT’s rapid evolution demands adaptability, and highlights key Global Employability Skills: communication, transparency, quality delivery, and strong decision-making. He explains why branding is so important and which strategies he adopted to scale his business. Key points:[01:23] – Presentation of Royson Rajan[02:35] – Why I have founded an IT Business[03:43] - Founder Skills That Matter[05:20] - Branding From Scratch[06:44] - Evolving Atlas and CrossTrip[10:48] - Bootstrapping and Funding Growth[13:57] - When to Scale Up[15:17] - Scaling Mistakes to Avoid[17:14] - Finding Customers and Marketing[19:12] - AI and Staying Current Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Career Launchpad: Internships and Work Experience talk with Pratham and Omnya 18.03.2026 28min

This episode hosted by University of London Careers Consultant Afua Kudom features Pratham Kanodia, a University of London graduate from Mumbai working in India as an equity research analyst, and Omnya Elshazly, a senior Economics and Management student from Egypt. They discuss how internships and virtual work simulations can build technical and soft skills, clarify career preferences, and increase confidence with networking. Pratham describes internships in marketing and agriculture, finding roles through LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and University of London career platforms, and using Forage virtual simulations; he explains how these experiences support his sector research and reporting. Omnya shares onsite internships in banking, sales, and the Central Bank of Egypt, highlighting learning, communication, teamwork, and proactive outreach for opportunities.[02:19] - Pratham’s Role in Equity Research[04:12] - Pratham’s Internship Journey[06:34] - Finding Internships Online[07:39] - Omnya’s Internship Experiences[08:51] - In-Person vs Virtual Work[10:36] - Virtual Simulations on Forage[11:48] - Skills and Career Impact[16:04] - Omnya’s Career Direction[18:49] - Networking Without Fear[20:30] - Top Tips to Get Experience[23:47] - Future Plans and Lifelong Learning Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Exploring Career Paths: Kamran Qadir Internship Journey 11.03.2026 13min

In this episode, Kamran Qadir, a distance-learning LLB and data science student who has worked as a research scientist in nanomaterials and environment technologies, shares his experience with an internship he completed in a South Korean laboratory and the value of a virtual programme called Bright Network. He explains the benefits of carrying out an internship and advises students struggling to find internships to engage with alumni networks via LinkedIn, use online work simulations platforms like Forage to build and showcase sector-specific skills, and attend career fairs, conferences, and seminars to increase their visibility and make connections.[1:15] - Meet Kamran Qadir[02:36] - Internships He Chose[05:42] - What He Gained[07:58] - Employability Skills[09:39] - Finding Opportunities Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating Internships: Insights from a Cybersecurity Student, Ayra Iqbal Mir 04.03.2026 20min

In this episode, Ayra Iqbal Mir, an MSc Cybersecurity student at the University of London joining from Kashmir, India, discusses the value of internships and other forms of work experience. She talks about her current IT management internship focused on consulting around technologies such as AI tools, website design, and cloud solutions. Ayra highlights transferable skills, networking, and recommends using platforms like LinkedIn, the university vacancy board, and Forage to source work simulation and internships.Useful links:Internshala - Indian internship boardKey parts:[02:38] - Current IT Management Internship[03:33] - Finding and Choosing Internships[05:51] - Application Stages Breakdown[07:30] - Help from Peers and YouTube[08:48] - Five Internships Across Sectors[11:17] - Skills and Benefits Gained[14:53] - Career Service Tools Forage[16:18] Top Tips Handling Rejection Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Law in the Age of AI: Balancing Tradition and Technology with Roma Vedamuttu 03.12.2025 19min

In this episode, Sophie speaks with Roma Vedamattu, a trainee solicitor originally from Colombo and now in England. They discuss about the evolving landscape of the legal profession in the age of generative AI. Roma share insights about the impact of AI on routine legal tasks, essential skills for future lawyers, and the balance between traditional methods and modern technology. The episode also includes insights from Rosie Baber on the implications of AI on critical thinking and productivity in the legal sector. Join us to explore how AI is transforming the legal profession.Key points:[03:05] - Personal Insights and Experiences with AI[04:36] - Journey into Law and Key Advice[06:45] - The Duty of a Lawyer: Ethics and Client Service[08:16] - Impact of University of London on Career[09:24] - Discussion on AI transformations in the legal sector with Careers Consultant Rosie Baber[12:52] - Balancing AI and Traditional Methods in LawArticles mentioned:Microsoft Study Finds Relying on AI Kills Your Critical Thinking SkillsLawyer caught using AI-generated false citations in court case penalised in Australian first | Law …https://fortune.com/2025/10/07/deloitte-ai-australia-government-report-hallucinations-technology-29…https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/oct/06/deloitte-to-pay-money-back-to-albanese-gover… Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Empowering Careers: Pradeep Din on Lifelong Learning and Teamwork 26.11.2025 32min

In this episode of the Global Careers Course podcast our Careers Consultant Rae Roberts discusses current job market trends, transformations, and challenges with our guest Pradeep Din, an alumnus with extensive experience in financial services in Canada. Pradeep shares his career journey and insights on studying online. Topics explored include interdisciplinary learning, AI integration, teamwork, environmental sustainability, and the importance of a lifelong learning mindset. The conversation also covers effective workplace engagement, leadership, and the critical role of empathy and communication in career success.Key points:[02:49] - The Value of Online Education[06:30] - Career Insights and Advice[14:54] - The Role of AI in Finance[22:17] - Environmental Sustainability in the Workplace Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating the Future of work: Robert Quao on Perseverance and Lifelong Learning 19.11.2025 36min

In this episode our Careers Consultant Rae Roberts speaks with Robert Quao, a UoL alumnus and alumni ambassador based in Ghana. Robert, alias Bobby shares his journey in internal auditing, highlighting the impact of his MSc in Professional Accountancy from the University of London. In this call, Bobby provides valuable advice for career starters, developers, and changers, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, lifelong learning, and adaptability. He also delves into the significance of transdisciplinary work, the evolving role of AI in auditing, and how to leverage a University of London education for a rewarding career.Key points:[01:56] - Bobby's Educational Background and Career Impact[10:25] - Insights on Internal Auditing and Career Advice[27:44] - The Role of AI in Auditing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating the Future of Work in the MENA region: Saima Hasan on AI, Sustainability, and Global Networks 12.11.2025 32min

Join Saima Hasan as she shares her remarkable alumni journey with the University of London, balancing a full-time job, family life, and extensive travel while earning a master's degree. In this conversation, Saima reveals how the flexible online program was a game-changer for her as a busy professional. She also shares her insights into her current role, as the head of marketing at a global law firm in Dubai. On this episode, you will also discover the value of flexible learning, the power of a global professional network, and the impact of AI and sustainability trends in the MENA region.Key points:[02:47] - Saima Hasan's Professional Journey[06:07] - Building a Global Professional Network[13:49] - Navigating AI and Technological Advancements[18:35] - Sustainability and CSR in the MENA Region[22:55] - The Importance of Lifelong Learning Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Makeup Artist to Lawyer: Ava Zadkhorvash Legal Career Journey 17.09.2025 39min

In this episode, Liz interviews Ava, a senior in-house lawyer at the University of London. Ava shares her unique career journey starting as a makeup artist and transitioning into law. She discusses the importance of mentorship, the concept and importance of understanding the 'code' in professional settings, and highlights key skills necessary for success in the legal field. Ava also offers practical advice for students, career developers, and career changers, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, confidence, and maintaining one's individuality while navigating different professional environments.Key points:[01:50] - Ava's Career Journey: From Makeup Artist to Lawyer[05:36] - Finding Your Voice and Overcoming Challenges[07:54] - Establishing Credibility in a New Professional Arena[10:22] - Essential Skills for Success in Law[15:27] - The Importance of Transdisciplinary Work[20:29] - Ava's Mentorship and Practical Tips[22:33] - Advice for Different Career Stages[33:38] - Final Words of Wisdom Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating the Unknown at the start of a career: Insights from Career Starters Ruaani and Salma 09.09.2025 20min

In this episode, Liz interviews , Ruaani and Salma, who share their experiences and thoughts as they navigate the beginning of their career journeys. Ruaani, a recent graduate in Economics and Management from Colombo, explores potential roles in the hospitality sector, driven by the inspiration from the long career of the father in the field. She also discusses how she gained valuable skills through carrying out job simulations on the Forage platform. Salma, a student based in Egypt studying for the Economics and Management degree from the University of London, shares her aspirations of making a meaningful impact on her community in her future career trajectory. She recounts her experience with a marketing internship focused on video content creation and her experience completing the employability skills experience. Both our guests reflect on the challenges, uncertainties, and learning opportunities that come with being at the start of their careers and offer valuable advice to fellow career starters.Key points:[02:25] -  Career Aspirations and Influences[04:04] - Challenges of Starting a Career[07:18] - Developing Skills and Gaining Experience[10:35] - Insights from Internships and Workshops[17:13] - Final Advice for Career StartersPlatform mentioned: The Forage Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating Career Change: Insights from Akbota and Ainura 03.09.2025 29min

In this episode, we speak with Akbota and and Ainura, two inspiring career changers currently studying psychology at the University of London. Originally from Kazakhstan, both have navigated significant professional shifts—Ava from finance and Ainura from multiple careers including banking, sales and fashion. They share their journeys, challenges, and the skills they consider essential for success in psychology. The discussion emphasizes the importance of empathy, critical thinking, creativity, adaptability, and resilience. Akbota and Ainura offer invaluable advice for those contemplating a similar pivot, stressing the importance of leveraging past experiences, and trusting one's intuition. Their stories provide a compelling look at the transformative power of following one's passion.Key points:[01:43] - Meet Akbota: A Career Changer's Journey[02:12] - Akbota's Career Aspirations in Psychology[02:56] - Meet Ainura: From Finance to Psychology[03:32] - Ainura's Career Transition and Challenges[03:45] - Akbota's Career Journey and Actions Taken[08:15] - Challenges in Career Change[13:42] - Skills Needed for a Career in Psychology[20:50] -The Importance of Transdisciplinary Work[23:54]- Final Advice for Career Changers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Achilleas Livieratos: Bridging Academia and Industry in Data Science 27.08.2025 17min

In this episode, we speak with Achilleas, a life scientist and current MSc Data Science student specializing in artificial intelligence, calling from Athens, Greece. Achilleas shares his career journey from completing his undergrad, postgrad, and PhD in the UK to working in large corporations like IQVIA and Pfizer. He discusses his ambitions to specialize and generate his own AI tools tailored for the pharmaceutical industry and highlights the importance of continuous learning. Achilleas also touches on the skills needed in data science, such as emotional intelligence and problem-solving, and the challenges and opportunities posed by rapid developments in AIKey points:[02:22] Career Journey and Current Role[03:24] Future Ambitions and AI Specialization[04:23] Impact of MSE Data Science Program[05:07] Challenges in Career Development[05:57] Advice for Aspiring Data Scientists[06:35] Essential Skills for Data Science[08:07] Transdisciplinary Approach in Data Science[09:29] Future of Data Science and AI[12:09] Using AI in Day-to-Day Work[13:15] Personal Qualities for Career Development[15:16] Final Advice for Students Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Strengths Unveiled: Careers Consultant perspectives for Every Career Stage 28.05.2025 45min

In this Global Careers Call, Sophie Odgers-Roe and Rae Roberts, Career Consultants at the University of London, discuss how understanding and leveraging personal strengths can impact career development across various stages of somebody’s career. They explore how strengths awareness can benefit career starters, developers, and changers, offering practical advice and also some activities for each group which you will find in the description. The conversation also highlights the importance of reflecting on personal and external feedback, the role of diverse strengths in building cohesive teams, and lessons they learned from strengths-based career coaching.Below you will find the activities that Sophie and Rae, Careers Consultants at UoL, have designed to help you discover your strength:Surfacing your StrengthsUncovering your Strengths and choosing the job that best suit your natural Strengths To download the pdf of the activities follow these steps:Click on Ctrl+P in Linux and Windows or Command+P on Mac to print the webpage and then select 'Destination' → 'Save as PDF' and your reflection will be downloaded and saved in a pdf file.Cappfinity, a company specialised in Strengths development, also has a quiz designed to help uncovering strength. Find it below:Free Strengths Test | Strengths ProfileKey points:[01:51] - Understanding Strengths in Career Development[03:45] - Advice for Career Starters[16:24] - Insights for Career Developers[25:16] - Guidance for Career Changers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Maximizing Professional Strengths with AI: Insights from University of London Alumni 21.05.2025 34min

In this episode, Sophie speaks to two alumni from the University of London, Adi Walker and Zainab Khan, who share their experiences using AI tools to augment their strengths and mitigate their weaknesses at work. Adi, an alumni ambassador and director of a multi-donor trust fund in Bangladesh, explains how he uses various AI tools like ChatGPT for tasks ranging from making presentations to dealing with HR issues. Zainab, a recent graduate and student consultant in Pakistan, discusses how AI tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly help her efficiently provide up-to-date information to students and improve her work productivity. Both our guests emphasize the importance of accurate prompts to get the best results from AI and discuss the balance between leveraging AI and maintaining a human touch in their professional lives.Key parts:[01:48] - Meet the Alumni: Ad Walker and Zab Khan[03:57] - Using AI to Augment Strengths[05:58] - Ad Walker's Experience with AI[12:56] - Zab Khan's Experience with AI[16:40] - Challenges and Limitations of AI[19:56] - The Future of AI in Professional Settings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Medicine to Public Health: Ruvimbo Chiswo on Strengths and Career Transition 14.05.2025 30min

Listen to Ruvimbo Chiswo's inspiring story of transitioning from clinical medicine to public health by leveraging her key strengths.Key notes:[01:40] - Understanding Career Strengths[01:53] - Realized and Unrealized Strengths[02:31] - Learned Behaviours and Weaknesses[03:34] - Introduction to MBO[04:05] - MBO's Career Journey[05:50] - Strategic and Systems Thinking[08:29] - Learned Behaviours in Career Transition[12:44] - Managing a Team: Strengths and Skills[14:46] - Diversity in Strengths[18:14] - Unrealized Strengths and Relationship Building[21:41] - Advice for Career Transition[23:58] - Evaluating Risk and Self-Awareness[24:56] - Curiosity and Career Growth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pursuing her passion in Academia: Mayuko Iwasawa's Journey 05.03.2025 30min

In this episode of Global Careers Calls, host Rosie Baber talks with Mayuko Iwasawa, a technical specialist in the Department of Applied Chemistry at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. Mayuko shares her career journey, inspired by hands-on experiences and inspiring mentors, and discusses the essential skills needed for success in academia. The conversation covers challenges in higher education, the impact of AI, and the future of globalized education. Mayuko also provides valuable advice for aspiring academics and highlights the importance of resilience and determination.Key points:[02:47] - Inspiration and Career Path[06:22] - Advice for Aspiring Academics[11:26] - Qualifications and Requirements in Japan[14:24] - Future of Academia and AI[21:30] - Challenges and Rewards in Academia[28:17] - Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Alan Arokiam Journey in Academia and Project Management 26.02.2025 24min

In this episode, our host Rosie Baber interviews Dr. Alan Arokiam, an associate professor in Project and Operations Management at the University of the West of Scotland. Dr. Arokiam shares his inspiring journey from a curious student to a senior lecturer in project and operations management. Discover the key lessons he learned along the way, including the importance of leadership, communication, and continuous learning. Our guest also offers practical advice for those looking to transition into the academic field. [02:15] - Alan's Journey into Academia [07:30] - First Academic Role and Career Progression [14:45] - Advice for Aspiring Project Managers [19:10] - Skills for Success in Project Management and Academia [28:30] - Working in UK Higher Education [35:20] - The Future of Project Management with AI[43:10] - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Malaysia to London: Andrew Woon's Academic Journey 19.02.2025 21min

In this episode of Global Careers Call Season 11, our host Rosie Baber interviews Andrew Woon, a Senior Lecturer and Programme Director for the BSc Business Management course at Queen Mary, University of London. Andrew shares his journey from Malaysia to the UK, his teaching philosophy influenced by Lao Tzu, and his extensive background in strategic and business management. He discusses the evolving academic landscape in Malaysia and the UK, the challenges and rewards of his career, and the importance of passion for teaching, love for students, and networking to navigate the sector. Finally, he also reflects on the future of education, particularly how AI and changing student needs are reshaping teaching methods.Key parts:01:51 Andrew's Background and Expertise02:59 Inspiration and Teaching Philosophy03:35 Journey in Academia04:30 Academic Landscape in Malaysia07:38 Rewards and Challenges in Academia12:26 Future of Academia and Staying Updated16:52 Strengths and Qualities for Success20:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.