Meet our degree apprentices who are balancing their cultures and careers
As a company dedicated to developing green skills, nurturing talent, and embracing diversity we not only recognise our employees’ differences – we actively champion them.
As we celebrate South Asian Heritage Month, we’re taking a moment to reflect on our colleagues’ journeys so far — not just as degree apprentices within E.ON, but as young South Asian women forging paths while staying true to their cultural identities.
We heard from two of our degree apprentices who are navigating the exciting, and sometimes challenging, intersection of culture, identity and career.
Tianni is from the southern state of Kerala in India. She started her journey at E.ON nine months ago as a Project Management Degree Apprentice and has since worked with both the Heat Zone and Business Improvement teams, gaining hands-on experience, skills and self-confidence
Why did you choose a degree apprenticeship at E.ON?
Tianni: Back in sixth form, I was always on the move – balancing A-Levels in Maths, Economics, and Physics with part-time work and internships. I didn’t want a purely academic route; I wanted to learn by doing. That’s when I discovered degree apprenticeships. Project management really stood out – it’s broad, fast-paced, and full of opportunity. When I saw what E.ON had to offer, I knew it was the right fit.
Sireen: I always kept my options open and explored different industries, but finance stood out – probably because of my dad’s influence! I was certain of one thing: I didn’t want to take on student debt for both financial and religious reasons. When I learned I could become a chartered accountant in just three years through an apprenticeship, the decision became easy.
How have your family and friends reacted to your career choice?
Tianni: Coming from a traditional South Asian household, university was seen as the only "respectable" path – especially if it led to becoming a doctor, lawyer, or engineer. When I chose a degree apprenticeship, there was some confusion and hesitation from my family and teachers. But I explained the benefits – earning while learning, graduating debt-free, gaining real experience – and slowly started changing minds.
Sireen: For me, the expectation to become a doctor was also strong. Because I was high achieving at school, any deviation from the traditional university route was seen as “wasting potential.” I was one of the very few at my school to choose an apprenticeship, and I noticed the subtle (and not-so-subtle) judgment. Still, I stayed true to myself and took time to patiently explain my choice.
How do you stay true to your culture in the corporate world?
Tianni: Culture is a core part of who I am. Whether it’s dancing Bollywood, cooking traditional recipes, or speaking my mother tongue at home, I make sure to stay connected to my heritage. I try to visit family in Kerala once a year – it keeps me grounded.
Sireen: As someone who grew up in predominantly English communities, I often felt like I wasn’t “English enough” or “Asian enough.” But over time, I’ve started to embrace my Pakistani roots more openly. I now love asking my mum about her childhood and learning to cook family recipes. Working in an inclusive place like E.ON has empowered me to show up as my full self – unapologetically.
What advice would you have for others planning a similar career route?
Tianni: If I’ve learned anything, it’s this: every journey is different – and that’s okay. Don’t be afraid to take the less-travelled path. I’m excited for what’s next – new projects, new challenges, and maybe inspiring someone else to try something unexpected.
Sireen: I’ve realised how powerful it is to surround yourself with the right people. You won’t please everyone, and that’s okay. Stay confident in your values, be open to new relationships, and don’t be afraid to stand your ground.
Celebrating roots and opening doors
This South Asian Heritage Month, we’re proud to spotlight Tianni and Sireen, whose stories show that cultural identity and career success can thrive together.
Our degree apprenticeship programme lets you earn, learn, and grow—all while contributing to the energy transition. With fully funded degrees, real-world placements, and a strong support network, it’s a pathway to a greener, fairer energy future.
We’re building the workforce that will shape tomorrow’s energy—diverse, empowered, and driven by purpose.