This week, in celebration of International Women’s Day, a group of young female alumni spent the day at Cushman & Wakefield’s Birmingham office for a very special shadowing experience.
Each was matched with a woman in the business, getting a real glimpse into the world of commercial real estate and professional services, and more importantly, seeing themselves reflected in the people around them.
It was a day made possible by the generosity of the team at Cushman & Wakefield, who opened their doors and gave their time. But spending time with the women leaders there, it was clear this was more than a one-day gesture. The female leaders from Cushman & Wakefield we met were warm, sharp, and highly capable, but what struck us most was the culture they carried with them. An environment where inclusion isn’t a policy on a wall, but something you feel in the room.
For LTSB, the day also held a full circle moment.
Among the women welcoming the group into the office was someone who, not long ago, had been in their position.
Haleema is now a Business Rates Administrator at Cushman & Wakefield. In 2024, she joined LTSB’s pre-employment bootcamp while still figuring out what her future might look like. She was reserved and unsure about where she might fit in the corporate world.
With support from Adella, Employment Manager at LTSB, and the wider team, her confidence began to grow. Cushman & Wakefield recognised her potential and offered her the opportunity to begin her career with them.
When Haleema secured the role, she said:
“It changed my life. I was hopeless before joining LTSB but with their support I have increased confidence, a better outlook on my future and I’m in a corporate role. I never thought that would be me.”
Catching up with Haleema on International Women’s Day, we saw how she was now welcoming young women who were standing exactly where she had been not long before. Haleema’s ability had always been there. What has changed is the belief she now has in herself.
Reflecting on the day, she said:
“It felt really special to give back to young people who were in the same position I was in last year. Seeing their ambition and confidence reminded me how far I’ve come.”
For the young women attending, the experience made a real impression. Chelsea, one of the attendees, shared:
“It was very insightful and motivating, giving me the kick I need to get myself back out there.”
Since 2024, Cushman & Wakefield have hosted two cohorts of young people, delivered sessions on networking and personal branding, and offered early careers opportunities to two LTSB young people who are now thriving in their roles.
Clare McCormick, Partner at Cushman & Wakefield:
“At Cushman & Wakefield, we are committed to creating opportunities that empower the next generation of women to thrive in our industry. Welcoming LTSB’s young women into our Birmingham office for International Women’s Day was a privilege, and seeing their ambition and potential firsthand was truly inspiring. We are proud to partner with organisations like LTSB who share our belief in inclusion, social mobility, and opening doors for future talent. Haleema’s journey is a powerful example of what’s possible when people are supported to grow — and we look forward to continuing this work and championing the leaders of tomorrow.”
Partnerships like this do more than create opportunities. They show young people what is possible, and they ensure the next generation has people ready to open the door when they arrive.
