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On Wednesday 14 October, as part of its Black History Month Speakers Series, Westminster City School welcomed back former student Joshua Oware. He was a part of the WCS community from 2016 to 2021 and is now a Financial Services Degree Apprentice at J.P. Morgan. He returned to speak to Year 10 students about leadership, communication and self-belief during assembly where he shared his own experiences since leaving school.

Speaking about his time at Westminster City School, Joshua shared the important role the school played in shaping his ambitions and preparing him for what came next.

He said:

"My time at Westminster City School built the foundation for everything that followed. The man I am today is a result of the many opportunities I was given during my time here."

Throughout his talk, Joshua encouraged students to recognise their strengths, believe in their abilities and understand that success is built through consistent effort. He reminded them that where they begin does not determine what they can achieve, sharing messages including “Your start does not define your finish” and “Consistency beats talent”.

He also spoke about the importance of remembering their reasons for working towards a goal when they are faced with challenges or setbacks.

Joshua added:

"My key message to the boys was simple; there is greatness within every single one of you. By believing in yourselves, recognising your strengths and using your voices positively, you each have the potential to lead, inspire and make a real difference."

Following his talk to the Year 10 cohort, Joshua led a 30-minute workshop with 20 students which looked at leadership at different levels, communication and confidence. Students learnt how to prepare a 30-second elevator pitch, communicate their strengths and explain what makes them stand out amongst their peers. They then worked in groups of five on a team pitch challenge where they developed an idea and presented it to the wider group.

The exercise encouraged students to think about how they communicate, listen to others and present their ideas clearly and confidently.

Having once sat in the same classrooms as the students he addressed, he was able to speak from personal experience about the influence of teachers, the importance of making the most of school life and the value of supporting others.

Thank you to Joshua for coming back to Westminster City School and sharing his experiences and advice with our Year 10 students.