Pathway Group Proudly Sponsors ‘Apprentice of the Year’
at Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards
Pathway Group, sponsored the ‘Apprentice of the Year’ category at the prestigious Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards. This year’s title was awarded to 19-year-old Santina Bunting from ARUP, a remarkable young professional who has been committed to apprenticeships since the age of 11, when they were less well-known as a career path.
Santina's Journey
Santina’s journey is an inspiring testament to the growing impact and respect for apprenticeships. Sparked by her mother’s advocacy and solidified by her brother’s civil engineering apprenticeship, Santina pursued her ambitions right after Year 11, opting for hands-on learning over the traditional route of A-Levels and university.
I was the only one out of 150 students in my all-girls grammar school year to opt for it. There are so many advantages to doing an apprenticeship. I’ve already worked on four major highway projects and am applying skills as I learn them.
Santina Bunting
Everyone has taken the time to explain things, and I feel part of the team. I can see my responsibilities increasing as my skills develop, which is incredibly validating.
Santina Bunting, Reflecting on her experience
Santina’s dedication and success have not only influenced her path but are also inspiring others at her former school, where she regularly returns to speak to students about apprenticeships in engineering. She proudly notes the increase in female representation in the industry, affirming that, “Gender doesn’t hinder you at all. The industry is changing, and it’s more about what you can add as an individual.”
I am very proud and privileged to have sponsored and presented this award to Santina Bunting. Santina is a clear role model for many. Time and time again, we find that the best way to promote apprenticeships is through outstanding apprentices like Santina, who embodies the values and strengths of this pathway.
Safaraz Ali, our Co-founder & CEO of Pathway Group and Founder of the Multicultural Apprenticeship brands
In addition to her latest award, Santina was recognised in the 2023 Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards, earning Highly Commended in the Engineering category and contributing to Multicultural Apprenticeship & Skills Alliance events.
The Pathway Group’s sponsorship of this award underlines their commitment to championing apprenticeships as a vital pathway to professional development, equipping the next generation with the skills to succeed across diverse industries.
