Advice columnist E. Jean at Elle Magazine presented the opportunity of a lifetime to a homeless girl who will spend the next four months as her personal intern.
The homeless girl, Bri, who was living in a Wal-Mart parking lot, was offered the internship at the prestigious fashion magazine after she wrote a letter to the columnist explaining her situation and seeking advice on how to get another shot after screwing up a job interview.
This real-life lucky break is reminiscent of the storyline in the movie, "The Pursuit Of Happyness," which saw the main character, Chris Gardner, earn a high-profile internship while living homeless and go on to achieve millionaire status.
Indigent Interns
Elle Magazine Offers Internship to Homeless Girl
Trend Themes
1. Social Responsibility Hiring - More companies will be inspired by Elle Magazine's example and offer internships to people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
2. Diversity and Inclusion Internship Programs - Companies will expand their hiring practices to include more diversity and inclusion within their internship programs.
3. Employment Empowerment - Initiatives like E. Jean's will continue to highlight the need to offer job opportunities to those who are homeless or struggling to find work.
Industry Implications
1. Media - Media companies like Elle Magazine have the opportunity to lead the way in offering internships to people from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds.
2. Fashion - The fashion industry, known for its exclusivity, can benefit from diversifying its workforce and opening up internship opportunities to those who might not have access otherwise.
3. Non-profit - Non-profit organizations can continue to offer job training and employment opportunities to individuals who may be homeless or struggling to find employment.