As part of BPU’s Internship Celebration Week, we’re spotlighting past interns who continue to shape the programme’s legacy this time, through mentorship, leadership and lived experience. We sat down with Olabisi Oloyede, a standout alum from the 2024 Black Interns Programme cohort, to discuss her journey, her transition into a full-time career and why she chose to return as a mentor.
Finding Her Footing: From Intern to Senior Resource Scheduler
“I’m Olabisi, part of the BPU Internship Cohort of 2024,” she begins, smiling as she reflects. “I joined BBC Scotland through the programme and worked with the Post Production team.”
That experience, she explains, didn’t just introduce her to a new industry, it unlocked an entirely new career path. Today, Olabisi works as a Senior Resource Scheduler in Business Operations, a role she describes as both challenging and rewarding.
“The internship became the stepping stone. It was the foundation I needed.”
How the Programme Shifted Her Career Direction
When asked how the Black Interns Programme supported her journey, she doesn’t hesitate.
“It wasn’t just about gaining access to the BBC,” she says. “It was the structured support behind it, BPU refined my CV, prepped me through mock interviews and set up consistent check-ins. All of that gave me the confidence and guidance to navigate a new industry landscape.”
For Olabisi, it wasn’t simply an internship. It was a launchpad.
Why She Returned as a Mentor
Coming back as a mentor was a natural step.
“I know firsthand how tough it can be to find your footing, especially in TV and Film. Someone opened the door for me and I wanted to do the same for others.”
Her goal now? To help upcoming interns feel prepared, seen, and supported—just as she once was.
Interview Insights: What She Learned Along the Way
What key interview tip helped her the most?
“Learning to tell my story clearly and confidently. Not just listing what I’d done, but explaining the impact of the work.”
One thing she wishes someone had told her earlier:
“That interviews aren’t about perfect answers. They’re about showing how you think, what you’ve learned and why you’re a good fit.”
Common mistakes she sees often:
“People talk for too long because they’re nervous. Short, honest and specific answers are always more effective than rehearsed speeches.”
Her Advice to Aspiring Interns
Before we wrap up, we ask her what she’d tell anyone preparing to apply.
“Don’t shrink your experience,” she says firmly. “Everything you’ve done, your background, skills, perspective, it’s all valuable. Prepare well, stay open to learning and trust that you deserve to be in those rooms.”
“The programme can open the door, but your authenticity and readiness will take you the rest of the way.”
Olabisi’s story is one we’re incredibly proud of, one that captures the heart of the Black Interns Programme: Access, opportunity, community and impact.
Stay tuned for more stories throughout Internship Celebration Week as we continue to spotlight the alumni shaping their industries and giving back in ways that matter.