Three Work-Based Learning Champions from the University of Westminster, Imaan Navaz, Subear Hersi and Mateo Alejandro Perlas Batol, have become the first university students Westminster students invited to tour and attend a LinkedIn AI Insider Watch Party at LinkedIn's London Headquarters in Farringdon.
The trio were warmly welcomed by Victoria Rodgers and John Wilkins, who gave them a full tour of the office and shared their professional journeys and insights. They were also joined throughout the day by Funmi Sonaiya and Paul Djima, who offered additional perspectives and support. From bottomless matcha and coffee to photobooths, game-filled break rooms and inspiring workspaces, the group experienced the vibrant culture that LinkedIn employees enjoy every day.
During the session, the Champions learnt how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping both the job market and the skills needed to thrive within it. The group also explored LinkedIn’s AI-powered coaching tools within LinkedIn Learning and found out how recruiters are now using AI algorithms to find top talent, highlighting the importance of regularly updating LinkedIn profiles, adding relevant skills and being proactive in showcasing abilities.
Sports Management BA Honours student Mateo Batol said: “The LinkedIn offices were like none I’ve seen before, truly luxurious and inspiring. It made me want to work there one day. It was a pleasure learning from Victoria and John about their paths to LinkedIn, especially John’s story as a Navy veteran. Their advice on personal branding and how to stand out to recruiters stuck with me.”
He added: “Some key takeaways I’ll carry forward are fully using my free LinkedIn Learning subscription as a Westminster student, properly optimising my profile to showcase what I bring to the table and John’s powerful reminder that careers aren’t straight lines, they’re full of ups and downs. I’m incredibly grateful for the hospitality and generosity from everyone at LinkedIn, and I hope to visit again one day.”
Subear Hersi, final year Marketing Management BA Honours student and President of the University’s Networking Society, said: “Visiting LinkedIn HQ was a standout moment in my university journey. I had the chance to represent the University of Westminster’s Work-Based Learning team while also gaining practical insights as a student myself.
“Getting a tour of the new LinkedIn Experience Centre and hearing directly from people like Victoria, Funmi, Paul and John made the whole experience feel incredibly real and impactful. I left feeling inspired, more informed and with a renewed sense of how platforms like LinkedIn are shaping the future of work.”
Imaan Navaz, Master of Business Administration (MBA) student, added: “Visiting the LinkedIn office in Farringdon was more than just a tour. I had the chance to see a glimpse into the heart of a company shaping the future of work. As the first group of students to visit the office, we had the unique privilege of exploring what it means to work at LinkedIn. We learned how to optimise our profiles to reflect our potential.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Victoria Rodgers and John Wilkins for generously sharing their time and insights. It was truly an eye-opening experience and a big thank you to Leonard Nedelcu for encouraging us to step outside our comfort zones and seize this opportunity. I am proud to have represented the University of Westminster and look forward to implementing what I have learnt from our trip.”
Leonard Nedelcu, Senior Academic Engagement Officer, added: “This visit wasn’t just a tour; it was a turning point. It reminded us that AI is transforming how we approach careers and that learning how to stand out in a changing job market is more important than ever. We’re proud of our Champions for representing the University and seizing every opportunity to grow and lead by example.”
The experience was made possible thanks to Kash Ahmed, Customer Success Manager at LinkedIn, who works closely with the University of Westminster to support students using LinkedIn products and tools.
This experience directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about Careers services at the University of Westminster.
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