Our Story

Our Story

Some Proud Achievements

Creating new pathways for youth employment

Since its inception in 2021, the TechStart programme has seen over 30 individuals successfully pass through its doors. With over 70% going on to remain in employment within the Technology industry, with a further 20% securing employment in other domains such as copywriting, events management and entrepreneurship.

  • 2016

    Milestone 1

  • 2017

    Milestone 2

  • 2018

    Milestone 3

“Techstart opened doors I didn’t even know existed. I’m truly thankful for the opportunity the programme gave me. They taught me to always have a good work ethic: to come to work on time and that giving 100% of my efforts each day is good for both business as well as yourself. Completing my training in an office with a cohort kept me focussed and also made it fun. 3 years later I am still with the company they placed me with”.

David Afrifa Mensah, Technical Engineer, F(X)Technology, Techstart programme participant

“This programme has given me a supportive place to go where I’m learning new skills every day and applying them to real world situations. I’m excited at developing my technology skills and working in a field that is always changing and growing”.

Olya Velychenko, Web Developer, WebFX, Techstart programme participant

“In 2021, David became our first TechStart participant, marking the beginning of a rewarding experience for us all. Three years on, his continued presence is a testament to the enduring impact of this programme. For SMEs like ours, allocating resources for training and additional support can pose challenges. Yet, this programme has been a lifeline, offering unwavering support to both David and our team. Together, we’ve proven that with dedication and the right opportunities, the tech industry can be far more inclusive to newcomers.”

Adrian Li Mow Ching, CEO F(X)Tech

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In 2021, Sam Liu, Founder & CEO of WebFX UK, took a significant step towards creating impactful opportunities for young people with the launch of a paid Digital Employment & Training Programme. The pilot initiative operated for six months in Hammersmith, welcoming ten participants from local schools and colleges. Following the acquisition of relevant certifications, these individuals were offered placements with tech companies based in West London, coupled with invaluable mentorship from business leaders.
Since its inception in 2021, the programme has seen over 30 individuals successfully pass through its doors.

Come April 2024, TechStart has matured into an independent entity, emerging as a Community-Interest-Company, with Stephanie Dillon taking an interim role as CEO & Programme Director. Stephanie previously led Inclusivity, a consultancy dedicated to facilitating the re-entry of career returners into the workforce, and brings a wealth of expertise to her new role.

“Unlocking the potential of disadvantaged youth in the tech industry isn’t just about providing opportunities; it’s about creating pathways paved with education, mentorship, and inclusive environments. The Techstart programme has been, and can be, a major catalyst for change, impacting the lives of individuals by offering them a gateway to relevant technology roles that would otherwise remain hidden”.

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CS-GB CIC

184 Shepherds Bush Road
London W6 7NL

Telephone: 020 8123 2690
Email: enquiries@techstart.org.uk

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TechStart is an employment programme by CS-GB CIC, a Community Interest Company Limited by Guarantee (Company No 12654134).

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