Employee volunteers led inspiring assembly talks for local primary school pupils this October, sharing their career journeys as part of Black History Month.
Volunteers from Hammerson and The Portman Estate spoke to children aged 5 to 11 at Hampden Gurney CE Primary School, offering insight into their roles, the skills they use every day, and the personal qualities that have shaped their careers.
October marks Black History Month (BHM) in the UK, a time to celebrate and recognise the remarkable contributions of Black people to British society and across the world. It serves as both a celebration and a call to reflection: highlighting achievements too often overlooked, and inspiring future generations to see the full diversity of talent that helps shape the nation’s present and future.
On 20 October 2025, an employee volunteer from Hammerson – owner, operator and developer of prime urban real estate – led an interactive start to the assembly. He shared his own career journey and how teamwork, perseverance, and problem-solving have shaped his career path. He also brought props and asked questions aimed at helping pupils think about the skills and qualities that can help them in their career in the future.
The following day, on 21 October 2025, a volunteer from The Portman Estate, based at One Great Cumberland Place, shared her own professional journey. Her presentation explored a typical week in her role, the varied skills she uses daily, and why she loves what she does, complete with photos from her favourite career moments.
Hearing directly from local professionals about their lived experiences is incredibly powerful. For many young people, seeing someone who shares their background or culture thriving in a professional career makes the idea of success tangible. It helps pupils imagine possibilities they may not have considered before, showing that with determination and the right support, they can build successful futures of their own.
The activities were arranged as part of our Community Programme which supports our business members to connect to local community groups. From environmental projects to skill-sharing to coffee mornings, there is something to suit every community engagement plan that creates memorable moments and sustainable impact.
If you are a Marble Arch BID member and would like to find out more about the wide range of community engagement and employee volunteering opportunities, please contact Phil at community@marble-arch.london.
