Opinion
BCU Alumnus Feron Jayawardene discusses mastering the three types of luck. My best friend always talks about three types of luck: the luck that finds you, the luck you create, and the luck you spot. My professional journey—from being an international student adapting to life in the UK to becoming a Press & Public Relations executive at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC)—is a testament to all three.
I grew up in a coastal village in Sri Lanka and began my career at Daily News, the state-owned English newspaper, while awaiting admission to a state university. It was the first kind of luck that brought me to the UK, as my cousins supported my dream of studying English and Journalism at Birmingham City University (BCU).
Why Birmingham?
Birmingham’s appeal lay in its status as a hub for international students, hosting some of the UK’s top-ranking universities, including BCU.
It’s Europe’s youngest city, with the biggest public library on the continent, a vibrant nightlife featuring indie pubs and clubs, and a wonderfully diverse community. The high quality of BCU’s creative courses sealed the deal for me.
The challenges of being an international student
However, life as an international student wasn’t all smooth sailing. International fees were significantly higher than those paid by local students, and I quickly realised that I had to create my own luck to thrive.
During university, I worked part-time as a customer service assistant in fuel stations across the area, including Bloxwich, Sutton Coldfield, Aston, and Lichfield. This was physically demanding but taught me resilience and adaptability.
My university experience was enriched by exceptional lecturers, especially the inspiring Marverine Duffy, who encouraged me to freelance.
Writing gigs not only provided a steady income but also sharpened my skills, gave me valuable insights into the UK work culture, and prepared me for the grind of professional life.
Spotting opportunities
The third type of luck came when I noticed a vacancy for a Press & PR Executive role at the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce (GBCC). After an intensive interview process, I secured the position and found two incredible mentors—Dan Harrison, Head of Communications, and John Lamb, editor of Chamberlink magazine—who continue to guide my career. This duo, alongside an amazing set of colleagues spearheaded by GBCC CEO Henrietta Brealey, made me understand the power of collaboration, teamwork, and networking.
A chance to thrive
I have been with GBCC for two years and counting, where I’ve gained a deeper understanding of Birmingham’s incredible business potential. The annual Birmingham Economic Review, recently published by the GBCC, painted an optimistic picture of the city, highlighting an improving economy and a resilient export market.
However, the report also shed light on significant challenges, such as ongoing skills shortages, alarming child poverty rates, and cost pressures stemming from the Autumn Budget.
One key yet often overlooked solution to addressing the skills shortage is tapping into Birmingham’s vibrant international student community.
According to a report by Universities UK International, international students contributed an astounding £3 billion to the West Midlands last year.
These individuals, who have proven themselves in UK academia, represent a talented and diverse workforce eager to make a difference.
All they ask for is a single chance to prove their worth.
The main barrier is the reluctance of firms to obtain work visa sponsorships, often hindered by misconceptions about the process.
Yet, investing in this pool of talent is not only a step towards solving the skills gap but also a way to ensure Birmingham retains the best and brightest who have already contributed so much to its economy.
After all, isn’t luck—whether it’s the luck that finds us, the luck we create, or the luck we spot—something we all deserve? In my career I've been lucky enough to be shortlisted for PRCA Rising PR Star of the year and was awarded the internal Chamber Star award in 2023.
For international students and the businesses willing to take a chance on them, that ounce of luck might just be the key to unlocking Birmingham’s next chapter of success.
The views expressed in this Opinion piece are of GBCC, not BCU.