The power of asking for help leads to a shared success 💪🏻

At just 24, Lebanese-born Rana is creating her own path in the banking world as a Analytics trainee at ING International Talent Programme (ITP) in Brussels. She joined this programme in October 2023 with an open mind, eager to explore where her interests would lead. And she discovered the growth brought by this programme is not just in her technical skills but also in character building and discovering new career passions.

From learning to leading the trend

Rana was drawn to the ITP because it offers a unique chance to explore different roles across various departments in the bank. She loves the idea of “trying out different roles before settling on a career path”. So she chose the Financial Reporting Center of Excellence as her stepping stone, a new area for her. Even though she didn’t have a background in financial reporting, Rana quickly showed her ability to adapt and tackle challenges.

“Now, I am exploring a new role with Assisted Channels, where I focus on improving customer experiences through data and AI. Today’s digital banking world is fast-paced and fascinating,” Rana shares passionately.

Being recalled to embrace life

“One of the biggest surprises for me has been the personal insights I’ve gained. I joined the programme with a solid technical background, thinking I’d focus mainly on data-driven projects. But as I experienced the different rotations, I found myself drawn to the broader business and strategic side of banking.”

The ITP feels like a fresh chapter in my life,

an opportunity to explore and enjoy new possibilities.

“I no longer want a career mainly entrenched in the technical aspect of banking,” Rana says. Instead, she envisions a future where she can merge her tech skills with banking strategy. This shift in perspective has been one of the most profound outcomes of her time in the ITP, as she now seeks a career path that integrates both data and strategy. “The ITP has also helped me get a better handle on my daily routine, from reading to working out. I finally feel like I’m in a place where I can thrive and truly enjoy life, and the anxiety that’s been hanging over me for so long is finally gone.”

Redefining achievement as a shared journey

“Before the ITP, success for me was something personal; obtaining a diploma, landing a job. But now I realise that success can be something more collective.”

Rana's presence in the ITP is not only shaping her own career but is also setting a precedent for future trainees. As the first Analytics trainee in Belgium in the last two years, she is trailblazing a path for others. “I think I bring a level of impact by being a point of reference for future analytics trainees,” she explains. Her experience will help guide future cohorts, providing them with an alumna who has navigated both the technical and strategic challenges of the programme.

Never fear to be perceived as stupid.

Speak up and ask questions openly.

This will foster communication and help us share our struggles more freely.

As Rana dives into her rotations, her excitement for blending tech with strategy is setting her up to shine. The ITP has been a journey of growth, helping her face her fear of looking silly and encouraging her to ask questions openly. ING’s supportive, no-hierarchy vibe has made it easy for her to feel at ease. She’s also found a great friend in fellow ITP participant Lehna; energetic and authentic, their bond has added a fun spark to her experience.

A message for the future ITP community

Rana encourages the future ITP’s to be fearless. “My advice for future candidates is simple: don’t be intimidated by people with more experience. Don’t hesitate to ask for what you want and ask questions when you don’t understand something. The culture at ING is open, inclusive, and multicultural. You'll find people are approachable and supportive, so take advantage of that!”

Interested in the International Talent Program ? 🤩