Not all young people have the same opportunities to realise their full potential. The NRW Talent Scouting programme was set up to tackle precisely these inequalities. Talent scouts provide individual support to pupils, strengthen their decision-making skills and, through personalised guidance, open up new perspectives that might otherwise remain hidden from them.
Talent scouts Miriam Zarden and Fabian Knoll regularly visit partner schools (comprehensive schools, vocational colleges and grammar schools) in the region. In confidential one-to-one discussions, they talk to upper-school pupils about their strengths, goals and life circumstances. They provide guidance on study and career choices, offer support with applications, organise contacts with universities, scholarship organisations or companies, and often support these talented pupils over a period of months or even years. The talent scouts are employed by Rhein-Waal University of Applied Sciences and therefore have access to a broad network, whether through existing study guidance services or through contact with other talent scouts and the students they support.
Bohdan Bilyi, a young talent who is already taking part in the programme and has consequently been awarded a scholarship, is enthusiastic about the programme: “Through the talent scouting programme, I have learnt above all what opportunities are open to me after my A-levels and that my personal background is no obstacle. I feel that my potential is truly recognised. The scholarship gives me the chance to have valuable encounters and take part in regular activities on a variety of topics. The conversations with Miriam have boosted my self-confidence and helped me to see my own path more clearly. I particularly appreciate that I can easily get in touch with her at any time if I have any questions.”
Miriam Zarden emphasises: “What makes our work special is that we give young people time, peace and space – something that is often lacking in everyday school life. We listen, ask questions and support each young person’s talents individually. I’m motivated by seeing how young people suddenly recognise opportunities they hadn’t considered before.” Fabian Knoll adds: “Many young people underestimate themselves. Our aim is to show them that there is much more to them than they realise. Those moments when a young person leaves a conversation with a new goal, an idea or a clear decision – that’s what drives me.”
Secondary school pupils and teachers interested in the programme can contact the two talent scouts directly.
Further information and contact details can be found here.
