EYCLF In-Person Masterclass Recap

From NSS to the Next Step

Honest reflections and practical lessons from emerging professionals navigating National Service, career uncertainty and the transition into the next stage of professional life.

September 2025 In-Person Masterclass National Service Career Transition

In September 2025, EYCLF hosted a unique in-person conversation featuring three young professionals who had recently completed their National Service. They shared the lessons, uncertainties and practical realities that shaped their journeys during and immediately after NSS.

A Conversation Grounded in Real Experience

The discussion was practical and deeply relatable to fellows who were preparing to begin National Service, currently completing it or approaching the end of their service year. Rather than presenting one perfect route, the speakers showed that professional growth often requires adaptability, patience and intentional action.

Their experiences reinforced the importance of viewing National Service as more than a compulsory requirement. It can become a period for building confidence, testing professional interests, developing useful relationships and creating a stronger foundation for the future.

Key Takeaways

Four major lessons emerged from the speakers’ experiences and the discussion with EYCLF Fellows.

01

NSS Is Not the End

Treat National Service as a platform to perform at your best, learn actively and begin taking bold steps towards the professional future you want.

02

Stay Open to Opportunities

Avoid becoming too rigid about how your career must unfold. New assignments, industries and experiences may add unexpected value to your journey.

03

Invest in Personal Development

Continue building your knowledge, confidence and professional skills before, during and after your National Service period.

04

Network Intentionally

The people you meet during National Service may become mentors, references, collaborators or connections to opportunities you did not initially expect.

National Service is more than a requirement. It can become a launchpad for growth, self-discovery and career direction.

Turning the Service Year into a Launchpad

A meaningful National Service experience does not depend only on the organisation where one is posted. It also depends on the initiative, curiosity and discipline of the service person. Asking questions, volunteering for responsibilities, documenting achievements and building relationships can make the year far more valuable.

Appreciation

We extend our appreciation to the three emerging professionals who shared their experiences openly and to the EYCLF Fellows who contributed to the engaging discussion.

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#EYCLF #NationalService #NSS #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #EmergingProfessionals

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EYCLF Masterclass Recap

Building Your Digital Presence for Career Growth

Practical lessons on digital fluency, professional visibility and building an online identity that supports your career ambitions.

August 2025 Online Masterclass Digital Branding Speaker: Mcloyd Fiifi Quayson

In August 2025, EYCLF hosted a practical masterclass focused on digital fluency and the importance of intentionally building a professional presence online. The session challenged participants to consider what their current digital footprint communicates about them.

MFQ

Guest Speaker

Mcloyd Fiifi Quayson

A seasoned digital marketer who shared practical guidance on professional visibility, online engagement and intentional personal branding.

The discussion showed that digital presence is no longer separate from professional identity. The way people engage, contribute and present themselves online can influence how colleagues, employers and professional contacts perceive their value.

Key Takeaways

Three major lessons stood out from the conversation about building a stronger and more intentional digital identity.

01

Understand the Pull Factor

Engagement matters. Your likes, comments, reposts and contributions can influence how people perceive you and the professional identity you are building.

02

Be Intentional

Your online presence should reflect the professional image, interests and values you want employers, peers and collaborators to associate with you.

03

Review Your Digital Footprint

Search your own name and examine what appears. This helps you understand the story your current online activity may already be telling.

The “Google Yourself” Exercise

During the session, participants searched their names on Google to see the information, profiles and content connected to them. The exercise provided an immediate view of the digital footprint each person was creating and whether it aligned with their desired professional image.

Your digital presence is your CV before your CV.

Appreciation

We extend our sincere appreciation to Mcloyd Fiifi Quayson for sharing his expertise and practical insights, and to all EYCLF Fellows who joined the session and contributed meaningfully to the discussion.

View LinkedIn Recap →

#EYCLF #DigitalPresence #CareerGrowth #PersonalBranding #DigitalFluency #EmergingLeaders

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