Sinem Pozanti
ESA Diploma
Scholar, 2024
ESA introduced the ESA Diploma Scholarship in 2022 to increase industry diversity as part of its mission as the essential and inclusive community for all professionals working in sponsorship.
The first recipients of the Scholarship were Nobandile Mutseyekwa (2022) and Ashley Arthingal (2023), and following in their footsteps in 2024 were Deji Faremi and Sinem Pozanti, who reflects on her experience here. Sinem was one of the outstanding students in 2024, winning the Top Set Brief award.
You have been studying the ESA Diploma for the past eight months. How did it go for you?
It has truly been an incredible journey. Coming from a finance background, I wanted to broaden my horizons and dive into a more dynamic field, and this programme delivered exactly that.
It’s been challenging at times, particularly as the assignments grew more complex, but that really pushed me to deepen my understanding of sponsorship. The practical, real-life case studies provided a well-rounded view of the industry, teaching me how to create solutions that benefit everyone involved.
Overall, it has been an extremely fulfilling experience.
You can now use the Dip ESA suffix after your name, having earned a prestigious professional qualification. How does that feel?
It feels incredibly rewarding! It symbolises the hard work, research and commitment that needs to be invested in completing the course. Beyond just a title, for me, it symbolises both personal and professional growth.
I’m proud of this achievement and confident that it will open new doors for opportunities in the sponsorship industry.
What did you find most enjoyable about the course, and what did you find most challenging?
I really enjoyed the creative approach, and the extra research required to complete the assignments. It was satisfying to apply what I had learned.
The most challenging part was the set brief project, which demanded the application of almost everything we covered in the course. Ensuring accuracy while reflecting on real-world scenarios was tough, but it made the whole process even more rewarding.
That balance between creativity and challenge helped me grow in unexpected ways, and I’m proud of how much I’ve accomplished.
You mentioned at the start of your ESA Diploma Scholarship that you wanted to inspire and empower other women in the workforce. How do you think you will go about that?
I believe empowerment comes through visibility and support. I hope to inspire other women by leading by example, demonstrating that transitioning into a new industry, even after major life changes, is not only possible but can be deeply rewarding.
I see life changes as opportunities, not obstacles, and I hope to encourage women to adopt this mindset. As I move forward in my career, I aspire to mentor women who are entering sponsorship, offering guidance and sharing my experiences.
Ultimately, I want to help create environments where women feel empowered and confident to take the lead and succeed.
What would you say to somebody considering applying for the ESA Diploma Scholarship?
I would highly encourage anyone who is passionate about sponsorship to apply. Whether you’re new to the field or already have experience, the course gives you a fantastic mix of theoretical and practical knowledge that really deepens your understanding of the industry.
For newcomers, it’s an excellent way to gain top-tier education in sponsorship, while experienced professionals can gain new perspectives on industry trends. The scholarship opened doors for me that I wouldn’t have accessed otherwise, and it pushes you out of your comfort zone in the best way possible, helping you grow both personally and professionally.
How important is it for the sponsorship industry to be representative of the European population as a whole?
Diversity is key — it drives creativity and innovation, which are essential for creating sponsorship strategies that are both inclusive and impactful.
When the industry mirrors the diversity of its audience and ensures inclusivity, we’re able to craft more authentic and engaging sponsorships that resonate with both brands and the communities they serve.
Representation and inclusivity are vital for building stronger connections and delivering sponsorship experiences that truly speak to a wider audience.
What are your career goals within sponsorship, and how do you think the Diploma will enable you to achieve them?
When I first started the Diploma, I thought I would focus on a specific area of sponsorship, curious to find out which one, but as I delved into the different elements, I found value in almost every aspect.
What I’m most passionate about is building long-term relationships and working on creative ideas that benefit everyone involved. The matchmaking process, and the ‘long-lasting’ collaboration that follows, are particularly rewarding for me.
While I’m still open to new opportunities, I’m especially drawn to sponsorship strategy, creating the storytelling and activation. The ESA Diploma has given me a strong foundation and the tools to explore these opportunities further, which excites me for the future.
- Find out more about the ESA Diploma Scholarship
