The 10,000 Interns Podcast | Episode 6: Lift As You Climb

Описание: This final episode is more than a conversation. It is a full-circle moment.

In the closing chapter of the 10,000 Interns Podcast, host Seren Jones sits down with Rebecca Ajulu-Bushell, CEO of The 10,000 Interns Foundation, for a raw and reflective conversation about leadership, identity, sacrifice and what it truly takes to build access in a system that was never designed to be equal.

Rebecca shares her journey from growing up mixed race in the UK to now leading one of the most ambitious social mobility movements in the country. She opens up about taking on the challenge of creating 10,000 paid internships in five years, learning how to lead under pressure, and what it means to carry the responsibility of thousands of young people’s futures.

She speaks about the influence of her late father, a freedom fighter imprisoned during apartheid, and how his belief that “the function of freedom is to free others” continues to shape her purpose today. Alongside her mother’s resilience and sacrifice, this legacy has driven Rebecca to choose purpose over comfort at every stage of her life. From becoming Team GB’s first Black woman medallist to being recognised by Forbes and the Times, her story is rooted in service, not status.

This episode also goes deep into identity, the experience of navigating Blackness in the UK workplace, and the very real pressures young Black people face as they try to enter and survive in today’s world of work. Rebecca breaks down why internships remain the great equaliser, and why the idea that “talent alone is enough” continues to fail so many young people.

With the Foundation now reaching the milestone of 10,000 paid internships, the conversation turns to what comes next. How do we build workplaces where people are not just let in, but truly supported to stay, grow and lead? How do we protect and nurture talent long after the first opportunity?

This episode is about legacy, responsibility and the future of work.

A powerful close for those building the future of work, and a reminder to young people that their story, their talent and their journey truly matter.

Follow to stay connected with the 10,000 Interns Foundation:
   / @internsfoundation  

Donate to help us continue creating paid internship opportunities for young people across the UK:
https://donorbox.org/10-000-interns-f...