LIFT is a partnership between Islington, Hackney and Camden councils, working with employers to open doors into fast-growing sectors like tech, creative and sciences. By connecting local residents — especially women, Black and global majority communities, neurodiverse individuals and people with disabilities — to apprenticeships and tailored support, LIFT helps diversify talent pipelines while creating real opportunities.

At the recent LIFT Futures Business Breakfast, hosted at Havas, employers shared how the programme is reshaping recruitment. Hackney councillor, Carole Williams said the event showed “just how vital this partnership is for creating opportunities for underrepresented communities.”  

Sharon from Havas agreed: “LIFT have entirely changed the way we recruit.”

By working with local communities, businesses are accessing talent they might never have reached through traditional methods. 

Daniel’s journey

A highlight of the morning was hearing from Daniel Gessesse, an Islington resident whose story shows exactly what LIFT makes possible.

After studying IT and volunteering with local organisations, Daniel was looking for a new direction. He discovered LIFT at an outreach event hosted at Amazon and received personalised support with applications and interview prep.

With LIFT’s help, Daniel secured a degree apprenticeship at Gate One, part of the Havas network. He’s now thriving — working towards a project management degree and already trusted to manage two projects.

“As a career changer, LIFT opened doors to a new path and made the transition really smooth,” Daniel said. 

His advice for anyone considering applying: “Go for it – no regrets!”

Get involved

LIFT is expanding its work with employers to create more programmes, more jobs and more opportunities for local people.

Residents: Explore jobs, training and entrepreneurship opportunities in tech, science and creative industries.
Employers: Partner with LIFT to build a more inclusive workforce.