Branching out into a world of opportunities
A slice of just about everything. That’s how I’d encapsulate my time at the John Keells Group after just over a year.
In barely 14 months, I’ve had countless new experiences, met and interacted with all manner of fascinating personalities, gained new perspectives, and challenged myself in ways I never quite imagined.
Initially joining the Group as an Intern for Group HR, I was unsure, and definitely a little nervous, of how my first real foray into the corporate world would be. Any trepidation I had, however, was quickly dispelled by the warm, vibrant and colourful people I had the pleasure of getting to know and work with.
As time went on, I had the opportunity to branch out, and not just from a strictly work-related perspective. From playing a role in the organising of the Group Talent Show – which was brought back to life after a long hiatus -, to compering at events such as the Annual Centre party and the 2023 Fasttrack Summer Internship Programme closing ceremony, taking part in quizzes and debates, as well as visiting several of the Group’s varied business units for work, I was getting to see so much and do even more. I even had a small tryst with photography, though I’d say that one wasn’t quite up my alley.
While I’d always backed myself to do well at things I innately had a passion for, here I was trying out things outside of my general interests and comfort-zones, and adding greater repertoires to my bow through a means which was still fun and exciting enough to keep me captivated.
By September last year, I had transitioned into a new role at Corporate Finance, having formed a clearer picture of what I wanted to do with my career. Here too, I’ve had the opportunity to gather new learnings on the daily, seeing things right from the highest level to the nitty-gritties of the ground level across several businesses.
While the pivot to finance has been a big shift, being involved in investor relations, feasibility analysis, and other finance related matters of the Group has certainly been interesting and rewarding.
Throughout, though, what has constantly shone through for me at the Group is the countless amazing individuals whom I’ve been lucky enough to connect with and grow alongside.
What the next year will have in store for me, I really don’t know. But that’s half the fun isn’t it? I just know it’ll be a ride worth taking.