WPR Expands Outreach to Inspire Next Generation of Talent

WPR has significantly expanded its outreach programme this year, honouring the agency’s pledge – made as part of its 30 positive impacts at 30 initiative – to inspire the next generation of comms industry talent.

The Birmingham-based PR and social media agency has delivered 18 talks to schools, colleges and universities in recent months, reaching hundreds of young people across the region and beyond.

With themes ranging from creative ideation to practical interview workshops, the sessions have seen WPR team members share their expertise with pupils and students at institutions including the University of Birmingham, the University of Wolverhampton and Birmingham City University.

To further broaden the agency’s outreach, WPR has also partnered with the Taylor Bennett Foundation (TBF) and #10000BlackInterns.  Working with TBF, WPR took part in the summer stars scheme and delivered two masterclasses, one encouraging sixth formers to step into PR and another for graduates.

Rebecca Williams, director (people and planning), said: “We know that breaking into the comms industry can be one of the most challenging steps.

“Ultimately, it’s vital, both for WPR and for the industry as a whole, that we do all we can to attract a talented, diverse range of people into PR, comms and social media. The more we can do to show people different routes into these exciting careers – and to equip them with the skills they need to fly – the better. We’ll be doing even more in 2023, so watch this space!”

WPR’s outreach and mentoring activity complements the Next Gen Insight Experience programme launched earlier this year. Next Gen is an innovative scheme designed to give aspiring comms professionals a better understanding of the industry.

Offering courses beginning with a five-day insight programme at level one and progressing to a paid one-month internship at level three, it offers a taster of agency life and valuable one-to-one time with experienced experts across WPR’s specialisms.