A core objective of the Rhodes Trust is to foster Lifelong Fellowship among Rhodes Scholars and Alumni through programmes, events and opportunities to connect. The Early Careers Launchpad (ECL) is a pilot initiative designed to support this fellowship by equipping Scholars with the tools, skills and networks needed to thrive in their professional lives.
Who is it for?
The ECL is primarily designed for, but not limited to, Scholars in Residence and Alumni who are navigating their professional journey after Rhodes. Whether you're entering the workplace, continuing in academia, or launching your own venture, the ECL is here to support you.
What goes on?
The ECL hosts a range of engaging and practical events, including:
- 1:1 career conversations and support: Reach out to Freya Guthier, Senior Programme Manager - ECL, to discuss any career-related topic in a one-to-one conversation, either virtually or in person at Rhodes House — for example, CV and cover letter writing, networking, interview preparation, or exploring career options.
- Careers and Pathways Programme: A series of panel dicsussions focused on supporting early-stage professionals build career clarity and explore sectors through conversations with alumni who have walked the path before them.
- Mentoring: Opportunities to meet and learn from mentors with relevant experience through our private community on Mentor Connect (please contact Freya Guthier to request a registration link for Mentor Connect).
- Mentoring programmes: Structured support to foster meaningful mentoring relationships
- Skills workshops: Sessions dedicated to strengthening key professional capabilities, held term-time.
- Collaborative events: The ECL holds regular virtual and in-person events in partnerships with bodies such as the Rhodes Entrepreneur's Circle, Scholars in Residence and the Africa Oxford Initiative.
All events can be found on the Rhodes Trust's 'Calendar of Events' page.
How do I join in?
ECL events are listed under the 'Calendar of events' on the Rhodes Trust website, where you'll find full event descriptions and registration links. Upcoming opportunities will also be shared in the monthly Alumni newsletter and via other Rhodes communications.
You can also explore the Resources Hub on Rhodes Connect, which offers a range of guides and tools to support you as you prepare for, enter, and progress along your career journey
Finally, the Network for Good mentoring platform brings together communities from the Rhodes Trust, the Atlantic Institute and RISE, creating a diverse mentoring network where you can connect with others and build meaningful professional relationships.
Contact Freya Guthier (freya.guthier@rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk) if you have any questions, would like to learn more about the ECL, or arrange a 1:1 career conversation.