The long-awaited annual celebration is here—Draft Day is right around the corner!
At the beginning of the summer, nearly 200 young professionals came together to develop their professional skills, build their networks, and prepare for internship placements. Now, their hard work will be celebrated on Thursday, August 20, alongside returning alumni and matched internship placements.
And here’s the exciting part: our young professionals won’t know which internship they’re receiving until they walk across the stage!
This year, two outstanding program participants, Abubakar Jeylani (3rd-Year Alumni) and Leena Syed (Class of 2027 Young Professional), will also take the stage to share their experiences with Genesys Works and reflect on how the program has shaped their journeys.
Continue reading for a glimpse into who they are, their Genesys Works journey, and the impact this experience has had on their futures!
1. Tell us a little about yourself and where you are from. What has your journey been like leading up to this point?
Leena (Young Professional): Hi, I’m Leena Syed. My family is from Tigray, Ethiopia, and I’m the youngest of three siblings. I’ve been highly involved in student council, DECA, NHS, and other leadership opportunities. My family, mentors, and the people I surround myself with have shaped who I am today.
Abubakar (3rd-Year Alumni): My name is Abubakar Jeylani. I’m from Eagan and attended Apple Valley High School before studying Information Technology at the University of Minnesota. I started at Ecolab in asset management before moving into automation and coding. I’m now entering my third year at Ecolab and earned my Associate of Science alongside my high school diploma.
2. What made you interested in joining the program?
Leena (Young Professional): I wanted to step outside my comfort zone, explore career possibilities, and build professional skills that I can carry into my future career as a financial analyst.
Abubakar (3rd-Year Alumni): I knew early on that I wanted to participate. Genesys Works gave me the opportunity to start building toward my future while I was still in high school. My supervisor, Chris, has been a huge part of my growth by connecting me with opportunities and leaders I wouldn’t have reached on my own. The program opened the door, but I also had to take initiative and explore different teams.
3. How have you grown or changed through your experience?
Leena (Young Professional): I’ve become more confident in speaking up for myself, presenting, managing my time, and prioritizing what matters most. I also met amazing people I may never have crossed paths with without Genesys Works.
Abubakar (3rd-Year Alumni): My confidence has grown the most. I’ve learned to ask questions, communicate effectively, and contribute even when I’m the youngest person in the room. I didn’t expect my internship to take me from asset management into automation and coding. Being willing to explore and ask questions completely changed my path.
4. What would you say to another student who is considering joining the program?
Leena (Young Professional): Just do it. You’ll gain professional skills, meet new people, and build relationships that can benefit you throughout your career.
Abubakar (3rd-Year Alumni): Just apply. You don’t need to know everything—you just need to be willing to ask questions and learn. Getting your foot in the door at a young age can change your trajectory.
5. What does being part of this program mean to you?
Leena (Young Professional): Opportunity doesn’t wait for you. Always look for ways to grow and better yourself.
Abubakar (3rd-Year Alumni): Genesys Works gave me a three-year head start through experience, relationships, and opportunities. The program can get you in the room, but you have to choose to make the most of the opportunity once you’re there.
