United Nation’s International Youth Day - Miya Nahil

This year, we’re highlighting the importance of green skills for young people. Moving toward a more environmentally sustainable and climate-conscious world is not just key for addressing the global climate crisis, but also for reaching the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As a proud member of the United Nation’s Global Compact, we’re fully dedicated to and in support of our five selected Sustainable Development Goals, which we believe let us make the greatest impact. We know that to keep making progress toward these goals, we need ongoing support from the next generation, and that’s why we’re heavily invested in our internship and apprenticeship programs. Recently, we spoke with our Group Product Intern, Miya Nahil, to learn more about her experiences at the company and what sustainability means to her.

Miya:

Where does your internship fit within the bigger picture at Owen Mumford?

During my internship, I worked as a group product intern as part of the medical devices product team. I reported to Julica Beaton, Rachel Chapman, and Gigi Atkins during my time at Owen Mumford. I participated in key market analysis across projects in women’s health and blood collection and worked with local markets to discuss new opportunities for growth and expansion.

What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned here at Owen Mumford?

While working at Owen Mumford, I’ve seen just how important teamwork and listening to each other really are. Collaborating and letting everyone share ideas brings in fresh points of view, which can lead to the best results.

Looking back on your internship, what skills or knowledge have you gained or developed that you think will help you in your future career?

Looking back, I’ve learned how to analyze market data and make informed guesses about possible market size. I’ve improved my presentation skills, which lets me speak more confidently and clearly to different people in the business, whether they’re a manager or a director. I’ve also challenged and grown my communication abilities by connecting with people from all sorts of backgrounds across the company.

How important is it for companies to prepare for the future by hiring forward-thinking, innovative young employees?

In a world that’s always changing, young employees are flexible and able to adapt. When unexpected situations come up, young people are ready to handle them. In today’s workplace, technology is a core part of business. Young employees have grown up with technology, and their natural abilities with social media and tech make them stand out from other generations. They also tend to value diversity, equity, and inclusion and enjoy celebrating differences.

How did sustainability play a part in your time at Owen Mumford?

Sustainability was a major focus in my role at Owen Mumford. While researching women’s health and blood collection, I explored the sustainability perspective because the company has a strong commitment to sustainable initiatives. I reviewed the business’s sustainability goals and looked at how many of our products are single-use plastics, how that affects the sustainability rating of our products, and what alternative options could help us achieve our sustainability targets.

How do you see sustainability becoming even more important in the business world moving forward?

These days, consumers are especially concerned about the environment, and because of that, the future of business will place even more focus on sustainability as part of our strategy. We have goals to reach net zero emissions by 2045, and that will shape decisions across the company — from developing new products to planning our marketing communications.

What advice would you give someone thinking about applying for an internship?

When I was looking for an internship, I only looked in marketing. I’d suggest expanding your search beyond just one area. When you start an internship or a new job, don’t hold back — ask questions and stay curious to make the most of your learning. I’ve tried to get involved with projects outside my job description so I could get a better understanding of how everything connects between the product and communications teams. After doing my internship, I have a clearer idea of where I want to go in my career!