Inspired: My Year in Industry with Yipiyap
Amy Redman
Where It All Began
It all began in 2019 when I decided to study a four-year English with Creative Writing degree at Loughborough University that included a placement year in industry. I leapt at the opportunity to get ahead of my other fellow undergraduates by gaining experience in a workplace before I broached the beginnings of a professional career. This was a unique opportunity that I couldn’t let go to waste!
So, fast forward 2 years, past the haggard grips of COVID-19, lockdowns and online learning, to May 2021 when I was approached by Yipiyap’s COO, Catherine, whose daughter I used to play tennis with (Hatty is a ‘one-to-watch’ for Wimbledon 2028!) Catherine told me that Yipiyap was seeking candidates for a Project Assistant Internship, so before she knew it, I had thrusted my CV into her hands and 2 interviews later, the placement was mine!
My Yipiyap Journey
Now, let’s move ahead to 15th August; my first day as a professional, working woman. I had my Zara blazer at the ready, notebook under my arm; I thought I was ready for anything.
Little did I know that the moment I stepped through the doors of The Warrant House, I would be swept into the entrancing whirlwind of Yipiyap. I was captivated by the organisation’s selfless ethos to support and inspire those most in need and the Leadership Team welcomed me with friendly, open arms. Here, I would like to pause to give special shoutout to my line manager, Elly, who since my first day has been a paragon; I will strive to meet the example that she set for years to come.
Then comes Yipiyap On Demand: my baby, my labour of love!
It has been an absolute pleasure to work alongside so many talented, dedicated and absolutely wonderful tutors, that create and record videos for our website. One of my favourite aspects of the role was to review the On Demand presentations; every single tutor brought their own authentic style to their work, and I loved their diversity and unique, tailored perspectives. How I will miss my On Demand stars!
Growth
Thinking back to August, I sometimes don’t even recognise myself! Working as a Project Assistant at Yipiyap has sparked a transformation. My ability, my mindset and even my fashion sense have all matured magnificently.
I have learnt how to be properly organised; I now write absolutely everything down! My notebook is a sea of ‘to do’ lists and I enjoy crossing off each task once it has been completed. I have recognised that it is vital to be always one step ahead and I have also realised the importance of starting a task now, not later. Procrastination is an old friend of mine but working at Yipiyap has helped me confront this particular demon and I have thankfully risen victorious. Similarly, I have become a lot more comfortable with tackling deadlines and setting them, too. It took quite a while for me to fully believe that I, too, had authority within the Leadership Team, and I now understand that the only person who treated me like an inferior was, in fact, myself.
So, this brings us on to confidence. Where do I even start… This year, with the teachings and guidance of Elly in mind, I have channelled my inner Beyoncé, found my voice and finally gained the courage to take that horrendously daunting leap of faith to believe in myself.
Now, I am never looking back.
Inspired
This brings me onto the final section, for which I have summarised my complete state of emotion as I write this blog on my final day as a Project Assistant. I feel totally, utterly, and completely inspired! From English Tutor Habiba’s arts and crafts Christmas present to Maths Tutor Nikolai’s lesson of wisdom; ‘be your best on your worst day’, I cannot express my gratitude enough to everyone who played their part in my Yipiyap journey.
However, there are two leading ladies that I cannot leave out: Anne and Catherine, it has been an absolute pleasure to spend this year working for two incredible, strong, dedicated women who selflessly devote their lives to inspiring and supporting young people. Thank you for teaching me that not even the sky is the limit.
Keep inspiring!