When former Levenshulme High School For Girls student Loretta Smith returned to her old classroom, she was struck by the enthusiasm of the current cohort.

With a 20+ year career in human resources under her belt, Loretta, who attended the Manchester state school in the 1990s, said it was a real pleasure to work with StateTalking to share her career path with students.

Now people experience director for pub company and brewer Greene King, Loretta has also worked in HR for Asda, United Biscuits and biopharmaceutical company Bristol Myers Squibb.

The lunchtime StateTalking session was arranged by careers advisor Ayesha Qureshi who Loretta says “moves heaven and earth” to support students.

Loretta said; “I was amazed how many girls gave up their lunch break to come and listen to me.”

In addition to sharing the challenges and opportunities she had growing up in the local area, Loretta also discussed her educational and career path with students.

She said: “I talked about my journey from sitting in their shoes, living in the local area and the challenges I faced to now having year 11 and year 7 daughters of my own and a very successful career in the world of human resources.”

She concluded her career talk with some advice, saying “choose subjects you enjoy, don’t worry if you don’t already have your career mapped out and it’s OK to change your mind.

“I also encouraged students to show up and take part and to grab any opportunities that come their way,” she said.

Reflecting on how the session went, she said: “I totally loved the experience of being back in my old school. It’s changed so much and for the better. Giving back and enriching others’ worlds, enriches mine.”

Do you want free inspirational and career talks from relatable, local role models at your Greater Manchester school or college? Or can we support you to better harness the power of your own alumni? Contact us at info@statetalking.org