Graduate Voice In March 2023, after a long period of development (and inspired by the epic work of our 2018 Graduate Focus Group), we launched Scarf's Graduate Voice program. Co-facilitated by 2016 Scarf graduate Mel Watson and Scarf Program and Wellbeing Manager Neil Baxendale, the Graduate Voice group includes five Scarf Graduates - Mona, Angel, Maher, Wafaa and Ysabella - who meet regularly to share feedback and ideas which help shape Scarf programs. The Graduate Voice get together every 6 weeks, sometimes in person and sometimes online. Their discussions are essential to the Scarf team and board gaining a deeper understanding of the wants and needs of the young people who sign up for Scarf programs. . As with all shifts worked by Scarf trainees and graduates, Graduate Voice members are remunerated for their time. . Mona (Spring Scarf '22), Scarf Programs Manager Neil, Graduate Voice Co-facilitator Mel (Winter Scarf '16), Scarf Pathways Manager Lauren, Maher* (Winter Scarf '23). Photo taken during Spring Scarf '23 Dinners at Noisy Ritual (by Roger Ungers). * Maher joined the group in October 2023, taking the position previously held by 2022 Graduate Mahabub . Since its inception, the Graduate Voice group has provided the Scarf Team with incredibly valuable feedback on our Uniform Policy and the way we share images and stories of trainees on social media. Initial discussions have also included how to ensure trainees are being adequately challenged by the Scarf team and mentors as they progress through the program, how to handle difficult conversations with diners, and how the Scarf team can most effectively support graduates in the post-program period. In the final part of 2023, and early 2024, Graduate Voice members are providing invaluable feedback on the new model Scarf plans to pilot in 2024, as well as supporting the Scarf Team and Board as we renew our Strategic Plan. . The beauty of the Graduate Voice program is that it belongs to the graduates themselves. They have started to build something very special, and are becoming increasingly confident in using their problem-solving, negotiation and critical thinking skills to help us drive the Scarf Program forward. Everyone at Scarf is incredibly excited to have these thoughtful and generous young people on board, and we are privileged to work alongside them as we continue to enable future Scarf trainees to overcome their barriers to employment. . . Graduate Voice members Angel, Mahabub, Ysabella and Mona setting the ground rules for Graduate Voice during one of the group's first meetings at Worksmith. . . Cover image: Hands-on training during Autumn Scarf '19 at The Rochey. Photo: Linsey Rendell