The ProjectÂ
The inaugural was launched in 2024 by a group of experienced industry leaders from the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) sector who wanted to give something back to young professionals from around the world. NTU was an early partner of the Fortitude programme and we worked with them to develop the programme and promote it to our students, hosting an industry 'masterclass' with some of the global experts from the Fortitude team.
We were delighted that NTU student Winona Yu (MA Interior Architecture and Design) was selected as the sole UK member of the inaugural cohort of eight young professionals from around the world, along with other participants from Australia, Taiwan, India, Brazil and the US. This international cohort benefited from a dynamic and enriching 12-week programme which allowed them to build a global network, benefit from one-to-one mentoring, and develop a professional development plan.
What was involvedÂ
Applications for the programme were launched in January 2024. To support promotion of the programme and enable as many students as possible to benefit from the experience of the Fortitude mentors, NTU hosted a webinar on the theme of "Building a successful global career in the built environment' where Fortitude experts gave career tips such as the importance of growth mindset, consistency and self awareness, and advice on building an effective network including the importance of curiosity, setting goals, making an effort, knowing your limits and impressing with your talent. The webinar was also provided an overview of the development programme and the application process.
The programme involved an initial online application. Successful applicants were then undertook strengths assessment and were allocated a Fortitude Advisor for 1:1 coaching to help them develop a comprehensive professional development plan. They also had access to global seminars including:
- Career development
- Empowering the next generation in the workplace
- Career paths and reflections
- Personal development plan presentations
Student Feedback
Why did you get involved with the programme?
The Fortitude Programme offered career mentorship to young professionals across the globe. I got involved because I believed it was an excellent opportunity to gain knowledge from experienced mentors in the ADBE field and would help me kickstart my professional life, even before I had completed my degree. I took the chance to register and gather the necessary requirements because there was nothing to lose and everything to gain.
What did the programme involve and how did you benefit from it?
The programme had devised a comprehensive development plan for our cohort. This involved the strategic pairing of each participant with a seasoned mentor, taking into consideration our respective fields, career objectives and personalities. This approach facilitated a broader understanding of various strategies to attain my career goals and it had motivated me to keep going.
What are your future plans and how has the programme helped you with these?
My ultimate career aspiration is to delve into property development. The mentors provided guidance in establishing both short-term and long-term objectives, which could serve as stepping stones towards achieving my ultimate goal. The programme offered us, the cohort, access to invaluable resources. These resources were instrumental in helping us organise our goals and devise a personalised career development plan. This plan proved to be extremely beneficial in monitoring my progress and determining the subsequent steps in my career journey.
What advice would you give to a future student considering taking part in the programme?
The Fortitude Programme is undoubtedly an excellent guide for your emerging professional journey. It will assist you in defining more precise career trajectories, facilitate international networking, and provide insights from experienced professionals in your field. The advisors at Fortitude are diverse and engaging, ensuring that connecting with your mentor will be a seamless and friendly experience. Participating in the programme will undoubtedly enrich you with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
Winona Yu (MA Interior Architecture and Design)
Mentor Feedback
"Winona's participation was excellent! Diligent, committed, focused and eager to learn, I really enjoyed the opportunity to get to meet and learn more about Winona. She was an outstanding cohort member that was always engaged, focused and eager to learn. NTU is Fortitude's Model Partner and we are so grateful for their outstanding support, which started with a university based webinar presented by Fortitude to NTU. Chris Jones and his team were amazing to work with, as they all are top tier professionals in Higher Education. Thank you so much to the NTU community for opening your doors to us and making us feel so welcomed! We look forward to furthering this long term relationship with the common goal of creating a truly diverse body of global leaders in AEC."
Thomas Gannon, President, Fortitude
About Fortitude Global Development
The Fortitude Programme seeks to develop the next generation of industry leaders in Architecture, Engineering, & Construction by leveraging global diversity.
About ADBE
We are a hub of expertise for aspiring and professional product designers, architects, engineers, surveyors and property and construction experts. Welcome to our School.
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