Creative Equals has joined forces with Google to introduce a scholarship program designed to provide individuals from underrepresented backgrounds with access to education in marketing technology, data, and media skills.
Named the “Creative Equals x Google Career Certificate Scholarship Programme,” this initiative primarily targets individuals from underrepresented, vulnerable, and marginalized communities. Its objective is to equip participants with essential tools, knowledge, and mentorship support to facilitate their entry into the workforce.
The partnership’s inaugural group consists of 15 individuals who will enroll in training courses of their choice in one of eight areas, including UX design, digital marketing and ecommerce, project management, data analytics, advanced data analytics, business intelligence, IT support, and cybersecurity.
Each participant will receive personalized one-on-one mentoring from Creative Equals mentors, complemented by subject-specific guidance from Google mentors, with additional technical support provided by specialist teams.
The training program will be conducted virtually over a six-month period. Courses are self-paced, offering participants flexibility in completing their training at their convenience. Importantly, these courses do not require prior experience or a degree but will be recognized by potential employers.
Ali Hanan, the founder and CEO of Creative Equals, emphasized the need to break down barriers to opportunity, providing individuals with the chance to enhance their professional skills, explore new industries, and potentially transition careers. She stressed the importance of digital skills in shaping the workforce of the future and highlighted the role of upskilling UK talent.
Hanan pointed out that marginalized and vulnerable communities are significantly underrepresented in the tech industry. Citing data, she noted that only 28% of tech workers are gender minorities, just a quarter belong to ethnic minority groups, and ethnic diversity decreases substantially in senior roles.
Nishma Robb, Senior Director of Brand and Reputation Marketing at Google UK, expressed Google’s commitment to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the digital economy. Google is excited to partner with Creative Equals in launching this scholarship program, aiming to provide underrepresented communities with the valuable skills required to embark on successful careers in high-growth industries