“A few years ago, I joined the very first cohort of the Decoded Data Apprenticeship, not knowing just how much of a turning point it would be. It wasn’t just about learning Python or data theory (though yes, we did that and more). It was about reshaping how I think – about problems, solutions, and the systems around us.

Since then, four more team members have stepped up to join the programme. Two have now completed it, both passing with distinctions, and two more are currently on the journey.

But what’s really exciting is how this has created a ripple effect. Even those not formally enrolled began picking up tools, sharing ideas, and embracing experimentation.

We’ve shifted from asking “Can we do this faster?” to “Can we do this smarter?”

The programme helped upskill individuals, but more importantly, it helped spark a team-wide culture shift.

– We now challenge processes more confidently
– Let data guide but not dominate our decisions
– Automate where it makes sense, not just where it’s obvious

The future of operational risk (and every other function, honestly) depends on data fluency and flexible thinking. And it starts with curiosity.”