Cumbria Talent Force Officially Launches – Powered by the Voices of Young Cumbrians
Today marks the official launch of Cumbria Talent Force, a new county‑wide initiative celebrating the young professionals who are shaping Cumbria’s future—and inspiring the next generation to do the same.
Developed by Enterprising Cumbria’s Careers Team, Cumbria Talent Force connects 18–35 year olds who have lived, studied and now work in Cumbria with local schools and colleges. Through short virtual insights, talks, workshops or workplace visits, volunteers share real, relatable career stories that help students understand what opportunities truly look like here in the county.
At the heart of the programme is a simple idea: young people are more likely to believe in their potential when they hear from “people like me”.
To mark the launch, Talent Force members themselves tell the story best.
Why Cumbria Talent Force Matters
Recent national research shows employers are facing significant workforce challenges—entry‑level vacancies, skills shortages and increased competition for talent. At the same time, many businesses want to do more with schools but struggle to find time and capacity.
Cumbria Talent Force provides a solution that is easy, meaningful and low‑effort for employers, while offering students real insight into the pathways available in their own communities.
By completing an online form, each volunteer creates a personalised alumni poster for schools to display, putting authentic local role models directly into classrooms and corridors.
Voices From the Talent Force
The impact is already clear from those who’ve joined:
Being part of Talent Force is a brilliant way to support the next generation as they navigate career choices they may not have considered. Seeing someone from your own school in a role you aspire to can be incredibly powerful.
I wanted to reconnect with my former school and show young people that someone who once sat where they are can go on to succeed. There are so many fantastic opportunities right here in Cumbria.
Hearing from people who’ve been in your position really helps when making big decisions about the future. I want to offer that same support to today’s students.
Cumbria Talent Force complements existing initiatives including STEM Ambassadors, Apprenticeship Ambassadors and Dream Placement Alumni adding breadth, diversity and real local stories without duplicating what already exists.
There is no cost to take part and the Careers Hub manages the process from start to finish.
The programme will be proudly shared today at Cumbria in Westminster Day, introduced by Cumbria’s Future Generation strategic representatives, Lettie Waring and Jonny Winter.
Get Involved
Are you aged 18–35 and living, working or previously educated in Cumbria?
Join the Talent Force and inspire the next generation.
Are you an employer?
Encourage your young professionals to get involved. It’s one of the easiest ways to grow confident staff, strengthen recruitment pipelines and support your community.