Two worlds. One mindset.
Louise proves you don’t have to choose between passion and progress
As part of Global Learning Weeks 2026, we’re shining a light on unlikely experts, people whose most meaningful learning didn’t come from formal training.
For Louise, that learning started at just six years old in Irish dancing shoes. She joined UBS as an apprentice and now works as a Graduate Talent Programme (GTP) Manager, supporting graduates as they make the transition from campus to corporate. Along the way, experiences outside work have played a big role in shaping how she shows up professionally.
Where did your biggest learning come from?
Where did your biggest learning come from?
I’ve been Irish dancing since I was six, and it’s shaped how I show up at work more than people might expect. Dance taught me consistency, continuing to show up even when I’m tired or busy.
At work, that translates into reliably meeting deadlines, multitasking effectively, and staying productive under pressure without becoming overwhelmed.
People are often surprised when they find out that my biggest learning didn’t come from a classroom it came from Irish dancing.
What does a typical post work training evening look like?
What does a typical post work training evening look like?
Most evenings, I finish in the office and head straight to dance training, with dinner on the go. It’s usually something I’ve prepped the night before to say organized. Training runs from 7–10 p.m., five nights a week. The sessions are high‑intensity and demand full focus, both mentally and physically.
Alongside dance, I prioritize cross training. I’m currently training for a marathon after completing my first one last year, with running and strength work now key parts of my routine, which makes the office gym incredibly valuable.
It’s a busy schedule, but one I genuinely wouldn’t change!
What was going through your mind at the World Championships in Chicago?
What was going through your mind at the World Championships in Chicago?
The World Championships are always daunting, months of preparation coming down to just two minutes on stage. In the past, nerves really got the better of me.
This year felt different. Knowing I’d done everything possible to prepare helped me stay calm and trust the process. Having my mum, grandad and brother in the audience turned nerves into excitement and reminded me why I love performing.
What’s one skill dancing has taught you that you use regularly at work?
What’s one skill dancing has taught you that you use regularly at work?
Learning how to take feedback and turn it into improvement. In dance, progress depends entirely on feedback from teachers, you learn not to take it personally but to use it to refine technique and performance.
After moving from my apprenticeship in Global Banking into my current GTP Manager role, feedback from my manager and wider team has been invaluable. I now actively seek feedback not only from senior stakeholders, but from graduates themselves, using it to make small, continuous improvements to the program.
Handling pressure at work feels familiar to me because since I was 11, I’ve spent over 15 hours a week training for a two‑minute performance on stage in front of thousands of people.
What did balancing an apprenticeship with full time work teach you?
What did balancing an apprenticeship with full time work teach you?
It taught me personal responsibility in a way no single training course ever could. Studying alongside full‑time work doesn’t take away your responsibility to deliver, it just means learning how to manage your time thoughtfully, plan ahead and be mindful of how your work affects the team. That accountability helps you grow up quickly, but in the best way.
When have you had to push through tiredness or self-doubt?
When have you had to push through tiredness or self-doubt?
Towards the end of 2024, I lost my Nan, my biggest supporter when it came to dance. Grief made it incredibly hard to keep showing up and training.
What helped most was the people around me. I have an amazing support system at home and at work, people who understand what I’m juggling and give me the space to be myself. Having that support makes it possible to get through anything.
What’s one strength people might already have outside work that they should take more seriously?
What’s one strength people might already have outside work that they should take more seriously?
Drive. The same drive that fuels career success can be applied to sport, learning or personal goals. It’s often the difference between wanting something and actually achieving it.
Interested in joining our team?
Interested in joining our team?
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