Reaching the position I hold today—a Level 6 Business Analyst at Amazon’s LHR16 headquarters—was never a straight path. It was built on uncertainty, sacrifice, and resilience. There were times I questioned myself, moments where the weight of my choices felt overwhelming. But each step, even the hardest ones, shaped who I’ve become. And looking back now, I wouldn’t change a thing.

The Turning Point

In 2023, as my GCSEs approached, I found myself at a crossroads. I was overwhelmed—not just by the pressure of exams, but by the daunting decisions about what to study next and where. Like many students, I faced an avalanche of opinions. But what made it tougher was the context: I come from a proud African household where A Levels were the standard, the expected route. So when I chose to attend La Retraite Sixth Form in Balham and pursue a T Level in Digital Production, Design, and Development, it was a bold and unconventional decision.

Initially, it wasn’t easy. My parents were understandably hesitant. Change, especially in culturally traditional families, is rarely met without concern. But I believed in the T Level program—the real-world experience it offered, the practical skills, the direct path into industry. I took the time to explain my vision to them, breaking down the long-term benefits. Eventually, they understood. Their support followed—and it meant everything to me.

Walking into La Retraite in September 2023, I carried more than books in my bag—I carried ambition, pressure, and pride. I knew I was on a different path, but I was ready to own it.

A Personal Mission

From the very start of sixth form, I set a clear goal: to secure a degree apprenticeship. This wasn’t just about my career—it was personal. My older brother had pursued the same goal, but despite his efforts, things didn’t work out for him. I wanted to prove—to myself and to my family—that with determination and the right mindset, it was possible.

La Retraite had strong partnerships with two major companies: Lloyds Banking Group and Amazon. Both are competitive, with only a handful of placements available. I quickly realised that talent alone wouldn’t be enough. I had to stand out. So I committed myself to being more than just a good student—I needed to be exceptional.

To prepare, I stepped far outside my comfort zone. I took a job at McDonald’s, working in a fast-paced, customer-facing role that tested my patience, adaptability, and communication every single day. It wasn’t glamorous—but it was essential. Each shift was a lesson in resilience, emotional intelligence, and time management.

At the same time, I enrolled in soft skill courses through Placer—a platform that offered training in communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. These weren’t just boxes to tick; they were building blocks that gave me the confidence and capability to thrive in any professional environment.

The Breakthrough

All the groundwork paid off when I was selected for a nine-week industry placement in the cybersecurity department at Lloyds Banking Group. I had dreamed of that moment for months. It was my first real chance to prove myself in a corporate setting—and I treated it like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

I went in with three words in mind: learn, work, impress. I became a sponge—absorbing everything I could, volunteering for extra tasks, and taking initiative wherever possible. I organised meetings, stayed late, and constantly sought feedback to improve. My soft skills became just as valuable as my technical knowledge, allowing me to build meaningful relationships with colleagues and make a lasting impression.

By the end of the placement, I had what I worked for: an offer to join Lloyds as a Data Analyst in Birmingham. That moment was not just about getting a job—it was a validation of every choice, sacrifice, and late-night shift. It was proof that the risk I took had been worth it.

Going Further

For a brief moment, I let myself breathe. With an offer in hand, I felt I could relax—but it didn’t last long. Deep down, I knew I wasn’t done. That’s when I set my sights on Amazon’s ultra-competitive 9-week placement program.

I knew the odds. Places were limited, the process was demanding, and the assessment centre would be intense. But I also knew what I was capable of. I reminded myself of the work I had already done—the experience at Lloyds, the skills from Placer, the grit I built at McDonald’s.

Despite already having an offer, I pushed myself harder than ever. And it paid off. I earned a spot in the Amazon program and fully embraced the challenge. I lived the company’s leadership principles and learned what it truly meant to be an “Amazonian.” Every day was a test of professionalism, adaptability, and initiative—and I passed.

When I was officially offered the role of Business Analyst in London, I felt a mix of pride and disbelief. Amazon wasn’t just a goal—it was the dream. And now, it was real.

Paying It Forward

One of the most rewarding moments came not long after, when I was invited to speak in front of T Level shareholders. Standing there, sharing my story—from the doubts and setbacks to the milestones and achievements—I felt a deep sense of purpose. Everything had come full circle. That moment was built on the foundation laid by every choice I had made, every course I took, and every obstacle I overcame.

The Message I’d Share

If I could go back and speak to my younger self—the boy facing GCSEs, unsure of his path—I would say this:

Don’t settle. Even when the road ahead looks uncertain or different from the ones others have taken, trust your instincts. Keep pushing, especially when it’s hard. Every challenge is shaping something in you, even if you can’t see it yet.

There will be moments of doubt, setbacks, and the temptation to take the easy route. But those very moments will prepare you for the opportunities that matter most. Stay focused. Trust the process. And remember—you are capable of more than you think.

Marvin Karemera

Incoming Business Analyst Level 6 Apprentice @ Amazon

You can find out more and connect with Marvin on LinkedIn.