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Finally the B4L programme is now a proven opportunity
for young professionals to learn, develop and utilise skills
and talents to the benefits of themselves, their employers
and those in need of water and sanitation in the developing
world.
David Elliott from Wessex Water is the founder
of B4L. “Having a good mix of people from different
organisations is important to their development and to B4L’s
success. Everyone brings a different experience and skill
to the group," he says.
Wessex Water’s role is to project manage the initiative,
underwrite the cost and to co-ordinate the training. “The
B4L students undertake our management
development modules and we also get a lot of free support
from external trainers. Their help has proved invaluable to
ensuring that we are able to offer an excellent development
programme,” says David.
However, much of the development comes from
the participants setting up and running their own business.
He adds, “The B4L team form their
own management structure and have board meetings with our
own Directors and Senior Managers from partner organisations.
This exposure offers them a unique opportunity to develop
their business skills.”
Steve Arthur has led the B4L development programme
for several years and acts as the lead facilitator during
the programme, Steve has been consistently impressed by the
work ethic of the B4L teams and their understanding of the
cause which they are supporting.
“B4L really is a Win-Win for all involved.
It’s great to see the team members take their first
tentative steps as a virtual business and then to watch them
grow into their roles and to deliver high quality fund raising
events. All of this is done whilst they are developing key
skills which will serve them well in their careers.
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