A group of Year 9 girls from Isca Academy have taken major steps towards shaping their futures this year through the Empowering Girls mentoring programme, working with inspirational female mentors from across the business and public sectors.

The scheme pairs students with successful women from a range of industries, including the NHS, Met Office, and local enterprises, who volunteer their time to offer one-to-one guidance. Over a six-week period, mentors have helped students boost their confidence, explore career pathways, and build the skills needed to thrive in education and beyond.

This term, students joined fellow mentees and mentors from across Exeter and Plymouth for a celebration event at Winslade Manor, where they were treated to a celebratory lunch, certificate presentations, and an inspiring keynote speech from international makeup artist Zakiyah Shani.

Zakiyah spoke candidly about her nonlinear journey, encouraging the students to stay true to themselves as their paths evolve. She shared how tools like vision boarding and journaling helped her stay focused, and how she continues to work through self-doubt, even now in her successful career. The message landed powerfully with the students, who left the event feeling motivated and empowered.

The Empowering Girls initiative is one of many enriching experiences built into Isca Academy’s careers programme. The school, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, integrates ambition and aspiration into daily learning while challenging stereotypes and promoting equality of opportunity. 

Mrs Vicki Joyce, Headteacher at Isca Academy said:

"The Empowering Girls programme has been transformational for our Year 9 students. Seeing them grow in confidence and begin to define their ambitions has been truly rewarding. We are so grateful to the incredible mentors who’ve given their time and wisdom. This experience has lit a spark in our girls and I can’t wait to see where it takes them."

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

"This programme perfectly reflects what we stand for at the Ted Wragg Trust, raising aspirations, breaking down barriers, and creating meaningful opportunities for every young person. I want to thank all the mentors who have inspired our students and helped them see that the future is wide open. I’m sure that Zakiyah’s words will stay with them for years to come."