2016 MAMA Youth alumni, Hawa Hassen, writes about her journey to becoming a Talent Manager Assistant at the BBC.

"Before MYP I was working in retail. It was a job that I found enjoyment in because of the great friends I made and still have today, however it wasn't where I wanted to be, nor did staying there long term interest me as the media industry was what I loved and wanted to get in.

I was trainee production manager at MYP. There were definitely ups and downs during the whole process, I learnt how to strengthen my known strengths and learnt how to think from the employers side. The role gave me an insight into what that job description entails and in conclusion allowed to me play a role I now may not want to take on in the actual industry. Something I wouldn't have known had I not done MYP.

How did MYP help me?! It chose me that’s how! If they had said no to me I wouldn't be working in the industry that I could only look into from the outside.

After MYP I did my four weeks placement at the BBC helping different departments and networking as I went along. Which led to me now working as staff at the BBC.

My advice for all new trainees would be to be patient and respectful of each other, don't stop when you get a no or things fall apart, just keep going. Help each other out if you are free, there's no pride in a team and that's what you are, a team and how you function and communicate together will determine how well you finish off. Enjoy the crazy journey, never feel alone because the staff do really care and take in everything you're told and given. If you utilise what you learn properly, you'll get a job at the end no doubt.” October 2016