The Value of Internships

Our Big City Bright Future and Khadija Saye Arts internship programmes mark their 12th and 5th years in 2026. Over the past decade, hundreds of young people have gained invaluable experience, developed new skills and built confidence through paid internships with employers across the finance and arts sectors.

We spoke to alumni and employer partners about why these opportunities matter, not only for the young people taking part, but for host organisations too.

For many students, an internship is about much more than gaining experience. It can transform how they see themselves and what they believe is possible.

Altaja, who took part in the Big City Bright Future programme in 2025, said:

“Going into the BCBF Programme I really felt like I had a bit of imposter syndrome… I thought I might not be right for this position but as time went on I feel like I can really see myself working in this position now. The internship really helped me develop myself professionally… and helped me access different opportunities… Having that experience really helped me improve my application… I really believe that I can get into it now.”

Anna, who completed the Khadija Saye Arts internship in 2022, described the lasting impact of working in London and meeting professionals across the creative industries.

“Doing the internship has definitely improved my professional and employability skills… it’s great on the CV and it makes you stand out… Meeting professionals in the industry was very important… I think internships like this matter because there are a lot of people who benefit from things like this and don’t get the opportunity.”

For employer partners, the benefits are just as significant. Alongside supporting the next generation, internships can bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm and opportunities for colleagues to develop through mentoring.

Nick Moss, Head of Post Trade and Operations Product Management at MarketAxess, said:

“Hosting Big City Bright Future interns brings fresh perspectives, curiosity and energy into the business… It reinforces our culture of learning, inclusion and community engagement, while giving employees a rewarding opportunity to mentor and support the next generation of talent.”

One moment stands out in particular.

“One of my favourite memories was seeing one of our employees, who had previously been through the BCBF programme, act as a role model for the students… I would strongly encourage other employers to get involved. The investment of time is relatively small compared with the impact it can have on a young person’s future.”

Emma Potter, Director of Community Engagement and Belonging at AllianceBernstein, has seen that impact first-hand over almost a decade of partnership.

“Whenever AB participates in the Big City Bright Future programme, the interns bring the office to life… It’s not just technical skills that the interns learn; they are building relationships, growing in confidence and… broadening their horizons and realizing that a career in Finance is accessible and achievable.”

Reflecting on each year’s programme, she added:

“My favourite part is the last day… listening to what the interns have learnt and seeing how far they have come. I feel proud to have been a small part of their journey and I know their experience at AB will stay with them.”

Together, these experiences demonstrate the lasting value of internships. For young people, they open doors, build confidence and create pathways into careers that may once have felt out of reach. For employers, they strengthen workplace culture, inspire employees and help build a more diverse future workforce.

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