Q&A with Socially Mobile graduate and student ambassador, Leanne Hughes

Leanne Hughes has supported Socially Mobile as a student ambassador for its most recent student cohort. She’s the Lead for Scotland at CAN Digital, working as a strategic advisor to public sector clients for paid media campaigns.

Q: You were one of the first Socially Mobile graduates in 2022. What difference did the programme make to you?

The course completely changed the trajectory of my career. When I started it, I was in a part-time junior role where career progression was completely unattainable.

The course gave me the confidence to level up to a more senior role in the NHS, before I’d even completed it! Later on, I left the NHS to lead a region for my current organisation.

It gave me a mirror to look at all areas of my professional practice. This included what was holding me back.  It gave me the self-belief to take the action needed for my happiness in life. 

Q: How did you find the 10-week programme?

It is intense, but that style of learning really suits my attention span. The course content provides everything you need as a foundation for being an effective communications and public relations leader. 

Q: Why did you apply to become our first student ambassador?

I was awarded the first Chief Examiners' prize for contribution, and that allowed me to go on and sit my CIPR Chartered qualification. 

I do like to support others in the industry through admin duties for Public Sector Headspace (a peer-to-peer Facebook group) and as the lead for CommsCamp Scotland. So it felt a natural role to apply for.

I love what the course did for me, so I want to help others succeed too. 

Q: Who should apply for the Socially Mobile programme?

A: If you are asking yourself if you should apply the answer is probably yes. Folk who want to step up, who want to do better in their professional practice and want to make the industry more effective and impactful. 

If you have a curious mind, like to understand and really get to grips with measurement and the 'so what' work, it is for you. 

If you want to be part of a positive culture and leadership in the future, it is for you.