Brogan’s story resonates with anyone who didn’t follow the traditional university route. She started with an apprenticeship, then moved into retail, observing peers follow conventional paths while she was still figuring out where she belonged.

Everything changed when she secured a role as Office Manager at AEG. But instead of staying behind the desk, Brogan did something many are too cautious to try: she got curious.

“I was really interested in seeing what everyone was doing at AXS and what their roles were. I got into festivals because I was being nosy… I like festivals, concerts, tours—so I thought, let me see what she does and if I can help.”

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From Apprenticeships to Discovery

Brogan’s story will resonate with anyone who didn’t follow the traditional university path. She began her career with an apprenticeship and spent time in retail, observing peers take conventional routes while she felt uncertain about where she belonged. Everything shifted when she landed a role as Office Manager at AEG, but rather than remaining behind the desk, Brogan embraced curiosity. She explored, asked questions, and got involved in areas that sparked her interest.

That willingness to explore became the gateway to a career she never expected.

The Diagonal Move That Changed Everything

In many corporate settings, moving sideways or switching departments is often seen as a detour. Brogan’s journey challenges that notion. By volunteering to help with festivals for a single weekend, she transformed a simple “side-step” into a specialised career path. One weekend grew into two, then an entire week, and eventually led to her current role as Senior Events Project Manager. Her experience proves that career progression doesn’t need to be straight to be meaningful.

“You can always climb up, but it doesn’t have to be straight up. It can go diagonal, left, or right, as long as you’re climbing.”

Facing Self Doubt and Embracing Opportunity

Even at a senior level, imposter syndrome can make its presence felt. Brogan recalls walking out of her initial interview convinced she had failed. Many Black professionals experience similar self doubt, questioning their abilities and worth. But Brogan’s journey illustrates that perception isn’t always reality. Securing the role was just the first step; the true challenge was embracing the opportunities that came afterward with confidence and determination.

Saying Yes and Trusting Yourself

Brogan’s career philosophy is simple yet powerful: embrace opportunities, even if they feel small or outside your job description. By being willing to step into new areas and say “yes” to challenges, she created pathways that others might have overlooked. Her story shows that self belief and persistence are far more valuable than following a conventional path. You don’t need a degree to lead; you need the courage to keep showing up and taking chances.

Are you ready to start your own climb? Explore current opportunities at AXS and AEG on the BYP Job Board.

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