West Thames Students Graduate from Voice for Locals Scheme
College aiming to provide business and digital skills
Some of the students after completing the scheme. Picture: West Thames College
February 20, 2026
Students from West Thames College have celebrated their graduation from Voice for Locals, a community-focused programme that equips young people with practical digital and business skills to support independent traders in the area
The ceremony marked the end of an intensive four-week training course, bringing together students, tutors, local business owners and civic leaders to recognise the achievements of the latest cohort. The initiative aims to strengthen links between education and the local economy by giving students hands-on experience while helping small businesses adapt and grow in an increasingly digital marketplace.
Speaking at the event, Jay Thattai, founder of Voice for Locals, reflected on the commitment shown by the group.
“What a journey,” he said. “We met 40–50 students and shortlisted 20. We were looking for the right attitude and people who could contribute to the local economy. The training lasted four weeks – it wasn’t easy – but they crossed all the barriers. I’m so happy to stand here with them in front of people who run businesses in Hounslow and see them graduating from the programme.”
The programme trains young people in digital skills, customer engagement, feedback systems and basic technology, enabling them to support independent businesses with visibility, customer retention and growth strategies. Students gain valuable employability skills while local enterprises benefit from practical support.
Three students spoke at the ceremony, reflecting on how the programme had shaped their ambitions.
Prabhjot, a BTEC Business student, described how the training had already helped her family’s small business, said, “We struggle with visibility. Voice for Locals taught me a lot: how to retain customers through feedback, introduce loyalty programmes, and expand the business by getting reviews. I’ve already helped my father, and now I’m keen to help others.”
Joshua, also studying business, highlighted the wider social impact added, “Through Voice for Locals I’ve learned about the struggles of young people and job opportunities, and what this programme can do. It’s given us the skills and knowledge to help local businesses.”
Abdul, an IT student, said the programme gave him the practical experience he had been seeking. He commented, “I love tech, but I didn’t have hands-on experience yet. Through the programme I learned about apps and JavaScript. It’s helped grow my love for tech and automation workflows, and I can’t wait to use this to help local businesses grow.”
The event also welcomed Christopher Durkin, President of the West London Chamber of Commerce, who praised the collaboration between the college and Voice for Locals.
“It’s great to be here,” he said. “I met Jay six months ago and we’ve been working together for a long time. I’m so proud of the progress and delighted to hand out the certificates.”
Students then received their certificates of achievement, marking the successful completion of the programme.
Closing the ceremony, Katrin Lehmann, Vice Principal for Inclusive Learning, Creative Industries and Student Experience at West Thames College, said the project embodied the college’s mission.
“West Thames College’s mission is to serve our local communities by empowering young people to reach their full potential through excellent education and wider opportunities. This exciting and innovative project brings those aims together. Thank you to the students for their dedication – the growth we’ve seen has been wonderful, and there is so much potential ahead.”
The graduation highlighted the growing impact of partnerships between education providers, community initiatives and local businesses, demonstrating how collaboration can create meaningful opportunities for young people while strengthening the local economy.
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