Croydon celebrity and all-round decent bloke Stormzy has announced the latest stage in the development of his #MerkyFC football careers project, by providing a permanent platform providing jobs, career advice and networking opportunities for young black Britons.
The guv’nor: after two years, Stormzy’s football employment project is expanding
The world-famous rapper, together with sports brand Adidas, reckon that they have created an additional 63 roles in the football industry in the first two years of #MerkyFC through their one-year internship schemes.
The platform will be operated in collaboration with #MerkyFC’s recruitment partner, Diverse. “The platform will serve as an online destination supporting both the current cohort who are already in roles, and the wider community who have applied for roles,” a statement from #MerkyFC said.
“Throughout the year, young people will be able to find and apply for roles available in the football industry, receive advice and guidance on career development, alongside exclusive access to networking opportunities and events hosted by Diverse.
“This will also include expanding some of these sessions to in-person events at #Merky FCHQ.” #MerkyFC HQ opened earlier this year, at Selhurst Sports Arena, on Dagnall Park.
Since its 2022 launch, #MerkyFC has brought together a collective of 25 leading brands in the football industry – “allies”, they call them – including Manchester United and Arsenal, and Sky Sports.
This is Croydon: #Merky FC HQ has recording studios and gaming rooms as well as football pitches
Of the 63 roles #MerkyFC says it has added to the British football industry for young people of UK black heritage, 39 of them have been retained for extended periods.
“We are excited to launch Year 3 of #MerkyFC careers,” said Steve Marks from Adidas.
“It is the right time to shift the programme to a year-round platform, creating more awareness and extended opportunities to continue to drive equity in the football business.
“The fact a high percentage of the recruits are being retained beyond their initial year placement is a testament to the concept and one of which we are extremely proud.”
- For further information on events at #MerkyFC HQ and how to become a member, visit www.merkyfchq.com.
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