Alumni Spotlight: Nikol’s Journey from LAET to TEXEL
At LAET, we take immense pride in celebrating the achievements of our alumni. In this newsletter, we spotlight Nikol, who has secured a position as a Junior Broker at TEXEL, an inspiring milestone that reflects not only her dedication but also the power of the partnership between LAET and TEXEL.
Nikol Bozadzhiyska, an alum of LAET’s 2020 cohort, shared her journey into Texel with us stating, “I’m currently doing a six-month placement at TEXEL, and it’s been an incredible experience. The support from TEXEL and the foundation laid at LAET have helped me transition from university to the professional world.”
Unlocking Opportunities through Partnership
This success story was supported by the collaboration between TEXEL and LAET, a partnership that has been flourishing since 2020. TEXEL Foundation’s Programme Director, Katy Beechy, explains, “Social mobility for us is about providing opportunities and nurturing potential. Our work with LAET exemplifies this mission.”
For LAET students, the TEXEL Scholar Programme begins in Year 12, providing bursaries for essential educational needs and workshops on employability skills, such as CV writing and interview techniques.
Students also visit TEXEL’s London office and the iconic Lloyd’s building, gaining insights into the insurance industry and life in the City. Katy reflects, “For Year 12s, it’s about broadening horizons and opening their minds to industries they might not have considered. It’s a chance to help them develop the skills they’ll need on their unique journeys.”
The Power of Mentorship
For LAET alumni like Nikol, TEXEL’s mentorship programme bridges the gap between university and
professional life. “I received an email about a mentoring opportunity, and although I wasn’t initially sure what I wanted to do, I decided to give it a try,” Nikol recalls.
She was paired with a mentor who guided her through career possibilities, reviewed her CV, and offered insights into different industries, including insurance. “It wasn’t just about insurance,” Nikol adds. “We talked about everything from civil service roles to diplomacy. The mentoring was invaluable in helping me navigate my options.”
From Internship to Employment
Building on the success of the mentoring initiative, TEXEL now offers internships specifically for LAET alumni. After receiving a First class Bachelor’s degree from the University of Warwick in History and Politics, Nikol took part in a two-week paid internship at TEXEL, immersing herself in various aspects of the business. She attended sessions on broking, explored the Lloyd’s market, and connected with professionals across departments.
“The internship gave me a real feel for the company and the industry,” says Nikol. “It was intense but incredibly rewarding. By the end, I had the confidence to give a professional presentation to TEXEL’s board, a moment I’ll never forget.”
Her hard work and determination led to her current role as a Junior Broker at TEXEL. “The support from TEXEL has been incredible. Everyone is welcoming, and the experience has built my confidence, not just for this role but for any future opportunities,” Nikol shares.
A Bright Future Ahead
Katy is equally proud of the partnership’s evolution. “It’s amazing to see students grow from Year 12 scholars to confident professionals. Nikol’s journey—from mentoring to an internship to employment—represents the dream outcome for us.”
Looking ahead, TEXEL remains committed to its collaboration with LAET. “We’re continually evaluating how we can expand our support, but we’re proud of the multifaceted approach we’ve developed to work with students and alumni at every stage,” says Katy.
Nikol’s success is a testament to the transformative power of opportunity and mentorship. At LAET, we’re thrilled to see her thrive and remain committed to ensuring every student and alum has the tools and support to follow their ambitions.