Software Engineering apprentice announced as first VIP golden ticket giveaway winner

Future Faces have announced the first winner of their VIP golden ticket giveaway for the 2025 Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards.

Ugonna Okoro, a Software Engineering Apprentice at Lloyds Banking Group, bagged the first golden ticket to be won at the recent professional development event on Goal Setting, hosted by Weightmans.

Members will have the chance to uncover 10 golden tickets randomly hidden at Future Faces events throughout this year.

Winners will receive VIP access to the awards, ensuring a night of celebration and networking among the region’s top talent and industry leaders.

The awards are due to take place on 17 October 2025 at Birmingham’s ICC.

Read below to find out a little more about Ugonna, her career and what she is excited about for the upcoming GBYPY Awards 2025.

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your professional background?

My name is Ugonna Okoro, and I am a Software Engineering Apprentice at Lloyds Banking Group (LBG). Before joining LBG, I studied Biomedical Science at the University of Brighton and worked in the NHS. Outside of work, I’m passionate about networking, giving back to the community, and attending professional events like those hosted by Future Faces.

2. What inspired you to pursue your current career or role?

I’ve always had a deep love for technology and how it can simplify daily tasks. Some of my best memories involve learning new skills and using them to solve everyday problems. After university, I decided to pivot toward a tech career where I could create impactful solutions that improve people’s lives.

3. What is the most rewarding part of your job or industry?

The most rewarding part of being a Software Engineer in the financial industry is knowing that the solutions I develop directly address the needs of customers and communities. At Lloyds, customers play a key role throughout the development lifecycle, which ensures we’re truly serving their interests. Additionally, LBG encourages its employees to upskill and contribute to society, which makes my work both meaningful and fulfilling—whether behind the screen or at charity events.

4. How did you hear about the Greater BYPY Awards?

I first learned about the awards through a Future Faces event, where I met someone who was shortlisted for the award. Their experience and passion for what the awards represent resonated with me, and I was immediately inspired by the mission to 'recognize and celebrate the achievements of young professionals in the Birmingham area.'

5. What does winning a gold VIP ticket to the event mean to you?

It feels surreal. Ever since I heard about the awards, I've wanted to attend the event but wasn’t sure I could make it happen. Winning a gold VIP ticket is an incredible opportunity, and I’m deeply grateful for it.

6. What are you most looking forward to at the awards?

I’m most excited about networking with like-minded professionals, witnessing the celebration of achievements at the awards ceremony and cultural displays.

7. If you could meet any leader or professional at the BYPY Awards, who would it be and why?

I would like to meet Aktar Islam. As the 2012 winner of the Great BYPY Awards, I’m inspired by how early he started his career and his unwavering dedication to his craft. Launching a business takes immense courage, and he has since established himself as a celebrated two-star Michelin restaurant owner. I deeply admire his support for the NHS Organ Donor campaign, which resonates with my undergraduate research on the benefits and barriers of blood transplantation to support NHS Blood and Transplant initiatives. His journey is a testament to the impact of resilience, innovation, and giving back to the community.

8. What’s one thing people might not know about you?

I’m a lifelong fan of both Marvel and DC. I refuse to choose between them because each has amazing characters and stories that inspire perseverance.

9. If you could describe your professional journey in one word, what would it be?

Resilient - It reflects my resolve to push through doubts, overcome fears, and consistently show up. Even in the face of uncertainties.

10. Why do you think events like BYPY Awards are important for young professionals?

Events like the BYPY Awards celebrate the achievements of young professionals, inspiring others to strive for excellence. They encourage connections, spark collaboration, and motivate those facing challenges to keep going. Even the smallest of difference can resonate considerably with the masses.

11. What do you hope to gain or learn by attending this year’s event?

I hope to build new relationships, exchange ideas, and be inspired by the remarkable achievements of my peers who are shaping the future.