From Student to Standout: Why the Future You Careers Event Is a Must by Tianna Vonkeman

I recently had the privilege of attending the Future You event hosted by J.P. Morgan and organised by MyPlus Students’​ Club. The participating firms were Capgemini, J.P. Morgan and KPMG, and the whole experience was truly transformative.

What Made This Day Special

This wasn’t just another careers event. It was about authenticity, strength, and breaking barriers. The day focused on how disabled students can thrive in top-tier organisations while bringing their whole selves to work.

Key Moments That Resonated

🎯 Reframing Our Narrative
Helen Cooke opened with a powerful message: our coping mechanisms in a world not designed for us have built resilience and unique skills. My personal strengths statement:

“Having ADHD has allowed me to develop my research skills, communication skills and enabled me to have a wide range of experiences.”

💡 The Power of Disclosure
The panel with Dhyasa Morgan, Anoushka Maini, and Reginald L. was eye-opening. Their message was clear: disclosure during applications empowers authentic teamwork; allowing you to say “here’s how I work and how you can work best with me.” It’s about bringing your authentic self, though the choice remains yours to disclose.

🔧 Adjustments = Levelling the Playing Field
One insight that stuck: adjustments aren’t about changing the process; they’re about ensuring equal opportunity. From additional time to BSL interpreters, these companies are committed to individual solutions, not one-size-fits-all approaches. Thank you to Reema Pandya, Suzy Style and Michelle Perkins for your insights.

What Impressed Me Most

• JP Morgan’s comprehensive support system with mentors and buddies
• KPMG’s individualised approach to adjustments with no one-size-fits-all rules
• Capgemini’s award-winning support groups, flat hierarchy culture where anyone can ask questions, plus extensive learning and development opportunities

The Networking Reality Check

Jacob Brown‘s networking advice was refreshingly simple:

“Networking is just talking to people, which we do every day.”

The conversations I had with Boston Rose Wyatt, Anoushka Maini, and Dhyasa Morgan reinforced that these organisations genuinely want diverse talent to succeed.

My Key Takeaway

This event reinforced that disability is not a barrier to excellence, it’s often the source of our greatest strengths. These three organisations aren’t just talking about inclusion; they’re creating environments where disabled talent can thrive.

The key message:

“Your unique perspective isn’t something to overcome, it’s your competitive advantage.”