Resources · Careers, Impact, BLP

Careers, Impact, BLP · Jul 10, 2025

The Impact of Career Connect Fest 2025: Confidence, Connection, and Community in Action

Recap of Career Connect Fest 2025 held 18 June at Tooting Works, attended by 37 young people. Panel talks, workshops, mock interviews and a Business Showcase resulted in 100% of attendees reporting increased career confidence and a desire to stay connected with Business Launchpad. Supported by the Wimbledon Foundation.

Career Connect 2025 Event

Career Connect Fest 2025 wasn't just a day of activities – it was a powerful moment of impact.

Held at Tooting Works on 18th June, the event welcomed 37 attendees, with over half coming from the local boroughs of Wandsworth and Merton. Through panel talks, workshops, and one-to-one support, young people took real steps forward in their career journeys – and the outcomes speak for themselves.

Real Connections, Real Results

This year's event created tangible opportunities for growth. Some of our attendees found mentorship or employment opportunities through conversations sparked on the day. And for many others, Career Connect provided something just as valuable: a boost in confidence.

"It was amazing experience with good learning and growing and helped me network better with people who have so much experience than I do and who are successful in the fields that I want to get into. And I believe that it will help me as well as other people find what they're looking for and grow." Bilal, attendee

Attendees explored their next steps through:

- A dynamic panel discussion with six professionals from business, education and social impact

- Interactive activities including mock interviews, a Dream Career wall, and the CV surgery

- A Business Showcase featuring local organisations, social enterprises and support services

Volunteers Making a Difference

Behind every conversation and coaching session were volunteers who gave their time and energy to support the next generation

100% of volunteers said their engagement with young people was meaningful.

75% of volunteers said they made lasting connections – including mentorships and potential collaborations.

"Many of the young people were reserved at first, but by the end, they were keen to ask questions and seek advice." Volunteer

And every single volunteer said they'd be happy to support future events.

Confidence That Lasts

Across the board, attendees walked away with newfound confidence and clarity:

100% of attendees said the event helped them feel more confident about their career.

100% of attendees said they want to stay connected with Business Launchpad.

These aren't just numbers – they're young people with ideas, energy, and ambition who are now better equipped to take action.

We're deeply grateful to the Wimbledon Foundation for standing with us and backing the dreams of the young people we serve.

Building What's Next

Events like Career Connect are just one part of the journey. That's why we're keeping the momentum going:

Our Incubator Programme is now open for applications – designed to help young founders build, grow and thrive with tailored support.

Find out more

Career Connect 2025 was full of energy, opportunity, and genuine care – the kind of day that reminds us what's possible when young people are given the tools and trust to lead.

Here's to everything they'll go on to achieve.

A young woman wearing a 'VISITOR' lanyard smiles while holding her phone during an indoor event. She is dressed in a black one-shoulder top and has a backpack over one shoulder. Other attendees and a brick wall are visible in the background. Career Connect Fest 2025 at Business Launchpad
A woman in a bright yellow T-shirt is speaking to a man seated across from her at a table, during a one-to-one session indoors. She gestures while talking, with a laptop open in front of her. The man listens attentively, holding a pen. Sunlight streams through large windows behind them, revealing a brick courtyard outside. Career Connect Fest 2025 at Business Launchpad
Two women stand in front of a bright orange wall, looking at a large Venn diagram titled 'Dream Job'. One woman points towards the diagram, which is surrounded by colourful sticky notes added by participants. The sections of the diagram include 'What you love to do', 'What you are good at', and 'What you can get paid to do'. Career Connect Fest 2025 at Business Launchpad
Volunteer statistics graphic
Attendee statistics graphic
Wimbledon Foundation acknowledgment

Business Launchpad