Nurture Programme Student Spotlight: Charles Adeiye

Celebrating 10 Years of Eden Smith & Building the Next Generation of Data Talent 

As Eden Smith celebrates its 10-year anniversary, it’s inspiring to reflect on how initiatives like the Nurture Programme are shaping the next generation of data and analytics talent. Charles’ journey is a strong example of how early industry exposure can accelerate careers, while helping employers build a future-ready pipeline of junior talent with real-world experience. Charles joined the Nurture programme and worked on a live project with CLEO on predicting whether users regret what they spend their money on. 

Please tell us a bit about yourself 

I was born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, where I completed my early education. During secondary school, I developed a strong interest in Mathematics and Physics, which inspired me to pursue Civil Engineering. I went on to earn a Second-Class Upper Division in B.Eng. Civil Engineering from the University of Ilorin. 

After graduating, I joined KPMG as a Technology Analyst in the Emerging Technology, Data, and Analytics Unit. Working there sparked my interest in data and analytics and motivated me to pursue a deeper career in the data space. To build on this passion, I moved to the UK to complete a Master’s degree in Data Science. 

While studying, I took part in a three-month project-based internship at Cleo through the Eden Smith Nurture Programme. After completing my master’s, I joined Barclays, where I now work as a Data Analyst. 

Why he applied to the Nurture Programme 

A few weeks into my studies at Salford, I realised that academic learning alone wouldn’t be enough to stand out in a competitive job market. I wanted meaningful, hands-on experience that would allow me to apply my academic knowledge in real business environments. 

When I discovered the Nurture Programme, it immediately stood out. The opportunity to work on real-world challenges, contribute to an organisation, and translate theory into practice was exactly what I was looking for. The programme offered the perfect balance of learning, application, and impact. 

Live Project Experience at Cleo 

If I had to describe my live project experience in one word, it would be “challenging.” I worked at Cleo, a fast-paced and inspiring environment filled with intelligent and supportive colleagues across different roles. 

The project pushed me beyond what I had learned academically. I worked with new tools and explored creative problem-solving approaches that I hadn’t encountered in a classroom setting. This experience strengthened my analytical thinking, collaboration, adaptability, and technical confidence, and played a major role in my professional development. 

Life after the project 

A few weeks after completing my live project, I joined Barclays through the Technology Analyst Explorer Graduate Programme. After finishing the programme, I transitioned into a permanent Data Analyst role, where I currently work. 

Impact on his career 

My live project had a significant impact on my career path. I worked on complex analytical tasks using advanced SQL and Python, skills that I now use regularly in my role as a Data Analyst. 

I also gained experience working with machine learning models and large datasets, and developed confidence using cloud-based technologies such as Amazon Redshift. These skills have been directly transferable to my current work and have helped shape my confidence, career decisions, and technical growth. 

The experience opened doors, strengthened my technical foundation, and gave me real-world credibility that continues to support my career today. 

Reflecting on Eden Smith’s Impact 

As Eden Smith marks its 10-year milestone, programmes like Nurture highlight the organisation’s commitment to developing next-generation talent and supporting employers with a pipeline of industry-ready junior professionals. 

By connecting ambitious students with real business challenges, Eden Smith is not only transforming individual careers, it’s helping organisations future-proof their teams, accelerate innovation, and invest in sustainable talent strategies. 

It’s exciting to see how the next generation of students and employers continue to benefit from this impactful Nurture Programme. 

Looking to secure future-ready junior talent with real industry experience?
Join the growing list of organisations partnering with Eden Smith’s Nurture Programme. To explore partnership opportunities or submit a project for an upcoming Nurture cohort, contact Marie May or complete the Client Project Scope Application here: https://www.edensmith.group/nurture%20project%20scope