The session brought together over 20 learners currently engaged in employability programmes delivered at the Harrison Centre, based at the Beacon of Light in partnership with the Foundation of Light. Designed to complement their ongoing learning, the Q&A focused on real-world career journeys, practical advice and the value of perseverance when navigating early working life.
Daniel spoke openly about his own career path, starting with his first job working in a local cinema as a teenager. He reflected on the importance of those early experiences in shaping work ethic, confidence and an understanding of responsibility. From there, Daniel shared how his career developed over time, leading to his role as a founder and CEO of True Potential, one of the UK’s leading financial services businesses, managing approximately £40bn of people’s savings and investments today.
Daniel’s personal journey from working locally as a teenager to leading a national business emphasised the importance of resilience, ongoing learning and practical experience.
By sharing both the challenges and opportunities he encountered along the way, Daniel reinforced the message that successful careers are rarely linear. Learners heard first-hand how setbacks, learning on the job and taking opportunities when they arise can all play a part in long-term success.
A key part of the session focused on practical employability advice. Daniel spoke about the importance of clear and honest CVs and he also shared guidance on career progression, highlighting how entry-level roles can provide valuable foundations and open doors to future opportunities.
This individual session sits within the broader mission of the Harrison Centre Sunderland, which is about employability. In the most recent reporting period the Centre supported more than 260 learners and achieved strong outcomes. Among learners aged 16 to 18 more than 85% progressed into work, apprenticeships or further education while over half of adult learners moved into a positive destination with many sustaining employment beyond six months. These results demonstrate the lasting difference that targeted guidance, education and confidence building can make for people who previously struggled in traditional settings.
Daniel Harrison MBE, trustee of the Harrison Foundation, said:“Sessions like this are about showing young people that everyone starts somewhere. My journey began with a simple local job and developed over time through learning hard work and taking opportunities. The learners here are already taking positive steps by engaging in employability courses and building their skills. My advice is always to believe in your potential, keep learning and not be afraid to put yourself forward.”
The Harrison Centre Sunderland opened in 2018 and was the first Harrison Centre for Social Mobility. It remains a cornerstone of the Foundation’s work to give people a hand up and help them turn potential into opportunity and take confident steps towards their future.