At Building Relations PR, we are enthusiastic about supporting and developing the next generation through our firsthand experiences and opportunities in the world of Public Relations. Across our different offices in London, Edinburgh and Surrey, we are helping to guide and mentor young minds in the field of PR.

This summer, thanks to the Taylor Bennett Foundation, we had the amazing opportunity to host Zaynath, who studies at Kings College London, as an intern at Building Relations PR. The Taylor Bennett Foundation is an award-winning charity that works to promote diversity in the Public Relations and communications sector by supporting young people from ethnic backgrounds through training, mentoring and workshops.

Here’s what Zaynath had to say…

Through the Taylor Bennett Foundation’s Summer Stars Programme, I was given the opportunity to hear from a range of different company sectors and learn about their roles and functions in PR and communications. The Taylor Bennett Foundation allowed me to engage in thoughtful discussions about PR whilst equipping me with insightful knowledge of the sector.

When I first interviewed at Building Relations, I wasn’t sure what to expect but the outcome has been immensely valuable. I came in nervous about drafting and sending my first press release but left four weeks later feeling confident, supported and inspired, with so many memories and lessons to take forward.

Here’s a look at my internship journey, week by week:

Week One – Settling in:

The first week was all about finding my feet. Arriving at the Blackfriars office in an area I was not familiar with was quite daunting at first, from making sure I arrived on time to making sure I had everything I needed. But with the warm and welcoming atmosphere from the whole team they helped me settle in and I instantly felt comfortable and at ease.

With guidance from Hannah, my line manager, I settled in. With Hannah I drafted my very first press release. At first, every word felt intimidating but with the kind encouragement from Hannah and the positive feedback from the team, I quickly learned how to shape press releases for clients and gained confidence in hitting ‘send.’

I also began understanding PR behind the scenes, from mounting and tracking coverage, to joining in on team meetings, I saw how strategy and creativity work hand in hand. By the end of the week, I already felt part of the team and welcomed into an environment where I was valued and not ‘just an intern.’

Week 2 – Events and Quirky Campaigns:

Week two was eventful – if you pardon the pun! Working with Kyle, I helped with an event that brought the community together. I got to put together a scavenger hunt and create posters to help with advertisement. I also conducted research tasks like finding vendors and members of the community to invite. Throughout the week I worked on some very unexpected tasks, like trying to hire reindeers for a Christmas event – yes, even in August! By the end of the week, I learnt that commitment to clients shows up in both the big and small things and there’s always a way to keep it engaging.

Week 3 – Corporate Communications & Public Affairs:

This week gave me an insight into the corporate and Public Affairs side of PR. Working with Laura, I researched MPs, wrote editorial pieces and began to understand how PR interacts with politics, policy and wider society.

It was fascinating to see how PR campaigns don’t just promote brands or products but can also engage with issues that shape communities and influence decision makers. By the end of the week, I learnt about PR beyond the clients, it’s also about community, responsibility, and trust.

Week 4 – Social Media & Graphic Design:

In my final week, I worked closely with Erin and learnt about the importance of social media in PR. From tracking trends to helping create content, I gathered how important digital platforms are for building a brand’s image to connect with audiences. I also had the opportunity to work with Sophie, who taught me about graphic design and creating content for clients to showcase the hard work of their developments.

I also supported Charlotte on a blog for the Building Relations website, learning how different channels work together to tell a consistent story. It was the perfect way to wrap up my internship, blending creativity, communication, and digital strategy.

Beyond the Work – The Everyday Moments:

While the projects were exciting, the small everyday moments made my internship truly memorable. Lunches in the park with Heaven and Laura, where their advice always stuck with me. Catch-ups with Hannah, which showed me it’s okay not to know everything. Laughs in the office, brainstorming sessions that sparked ideas and cuddles with Simba the office dog. These moments showed me that PR isn’t just about the work it’s about building relations, teamwork and having fun along the way.

Looking back, I can see just how much I’ve grown from nervous to confident. Here are my top tips for anyone starting an internship:

  1. Embrace every task – whether it’s drafting a press release or researching reindeer, everything no matter how big or small adds value and knowledge to your experience.
  2. Ask questions – curiosity is a good way to learn and nothing is a silly question.
  3. Take time to connect – don’t be afraid to spend time with your team, their feedback and advice shapes your growth more than you realise.
  4. Confidence builds over time – each small step will lead to bigger ones.

I’m incredibly grateful to the team at Building Relations PR for letting me feel part of the team and to the Taylor Bennett Foundation for making this opportunity possible. I came in curious and a little unsure and now I leave with clarity, confidence, and excitement for what’s next.

I’m excited to announce that my internship experience has led to me accepting the role of PR assistant with Building Relations PR. I look forward to continuing working with the team and building on all the skills and knowledge I’ve learnt during my internship.

If you are interested in work experience opportunities with Building Relations PR, send a copy of your CV to pr@building-relations.co.uk.