Stephany, you started working at H&M shortly after graduating. What were the key takeaways from your time at UvA?

'Aside from the theory, it was mainly everything else you learn around it. I didn’t really realise it as a student, but later I saw that the soft skills you develop are incredibly valuable. Like collaborating, being able to quickly read through large amounts of information, and processing it. Being able to identify the key points.

At H&M, we ran over 200 campaigns a year on an international level. So, you read a lot of campaign info, you have to dive into many things, but it all needs to happen quickly because you’re in a fast-paced industry – the fashion industry.

Being able to express yourself and present your ideas are also important skills I took with me. The fear of standing in front of a group was already tackled during my studies. That allowed me to clearly explain the reasoning behind a strategy and how we could implement it.

And I’m still gaining knowledge through the alumni network at alumni events. It’s really nice to meet people there and bounce ideas off them. It’s great to exchange certain things in such a low-key way. Very valuable.'

What is your fondest memory? 

‘The transition from high school to the Bachelor’s in Communication Science was very tough. I really had to learn how to study at a university level. I did not get that from my family. As a first-generation student with parents who did not have higher education, it was truly a struggle. For instance, at first, I didn't understand what ‘bias’ in the literature meant. 

I literally had to retake all my exams. I even had to redo my thesis. My parents couldn’t help me with studying, but they supported me unconditionally and kept believing in me, telling me I could do it. 

A very beautiful and important moment was meeting Joost Verhoeven, my mentor during my Master’s. Joost helped me immensely that year. I opened up and genuinely asked for help. He guided me brilliantly by being honest when something was not right, but also by offering constructive alternatives and guidance. This helped me regain my self-confidence after a challenging Bachelor’s programme. I still speak with him and am very grateful to him.’ 

Could you make a big impact at H&M? 

‘By the age of 25, I was already head of marketing and customer loyalty. That is young, but H&M offered those opportunities. Many people grow from the shop floor, just like I did. Whether you have a degree or not does not matter. There is a lot of faith in people and talent. 

Although H&M, as an international organisation, has a very good mix of cultures, I was often the only Black manager in my thirties. So, I did have a place as a role model. I still receive messages from people saying it was very inspiring that I, as a young woman or a young Black woman, could fulfil that role. I found it very rewarding to pass on the belief I received from my managers to young people in my teams. 

I primarily made a difference in terms of inclusivity. For example, by working with a starting photographer from a different background and giving them opportunities. Or booking certain DJs for campaigns, giving them a platform through H&M. I was able to introduce new faces and voices.’ 

What laid the foundation for your FÉ platform? 

‘I started FÉ [pronounced fèh] from the idea that I missed having a mentor during my Bachelor’s. There was support from lecturers, but not from people who had already started working. 

When I started at H&M, I often received messages via LinkedIn or Instagram, like: “Hey, I'm also studying communication science and saw you did too; can we talk about it?” Or: “How did you find the Master’s in Corporate Communication?” Or: “Can I have a half-hour chat with you about something?” These were people I didn't know. 

Sometimes, I would say I couldn't do it at that time because I was busy, but that I'd be available the following week. After graduating, I made time for these conversations. I always responded because I could have used that during my studies. I emailed countless people: students, young professionals and those who had been working in companies for a while. But I never received a response. 

I always missed having someone to look up to. As a student, but also later at H&M. I've  heard this from others as well, so I felt I should do something about it. I started thinking: how can I create a structured programme with mentees? That's what I want to offer with FÉ to primarily young women between 20 and 40 years old: students, young professionals and emerging entrepreneurs in various sectors. New leaders. 

FÉ has now been around for 2 years. Where I was always an ‘intrapreneur’ within companies, I am now an entrepreneur myself. I have set up various programmes. The first step is connecting people, expanding networks. This is good for your knowledge and career. Additionally, there are longer, paid programmes focusing on reflection, development plans with frequent check-ins, as well as workshops, events and master classes.’ 

What’s your advice? 

‘Don't be afraid to ask for help. Everyone has tough times during their studies or work. Just ask for advice and build a community around you, even after your studies.’ 

What message do you want to give to current students or young alumni? 

‘If there had been other students or professionals around me during my Bachelor’s who could give me tips, it would have helped a lot. I really missed that. Hence, the FÉ platform. 

My dream is for FÉ to become the leading mentoring platform in Europe and also in Africa. I notice that I attract many people from Nigeria, South Africa, Cape Verde - where my roots are - through LinkedIn. I would like to expand the network of mentors there, possibly through spaces or pop-up community centres, like local hubs with local mentors. Because there is also a need for mentors and people seeking help there. 

That’s my advice to students: don't be afraid to ask for help. Everyone faces challenges during their studies or work. So, just ask for advice on how others do things. Don't be ashamed of it. 

Build a network of peers and fellow students, not necessarily your friends, who can support each other and provide constructive feedback. While I was mainly on my own, a friend of mine had this, and I saw how well it worked for her. So, I really recommend creating a community around you, even after your studies.’