Graduate platform nominated for best startup faces up to the challenges of the ‘brain drain’

A website that connects graduates to jobs in Wales is recognised for its growth but concerns remain about young talent continuing to pursue careers elsewhere

Cardiff business nominee connects students to employers

Daragon Careers Fair, Cardiff University, 15 October 2024.

A Cardiff-based website for graduates has been nominated for best startup at the Cardiff Business Awards on 8 November, after the agency encouraged University educated students to find jobs in Wales, rather than moving away. 

Graduate platform, Daragon Talent works to connect Welsh employers with prospective new employees by offering mentorships, workshops and networking for young job-seekers after University. 

The business was set up in 2020 and has grown in popularity on social media, by connecting with university societies and receiving positive feedback on its Welsh-centred careers fairs. Its recognition for ‘Startup of the year,’ was a nomination that founder, Owain James, said is “an honour.” 

Despite its efforts, many young people continue to leave Wales in search of better opportunities. StatWales revealed the number of people aged 15 to 29 moving away from Wales is increasing. With an average of 1,578 leaving in 2022, compared to 1,290 five years before. 

This is a problem James said has persisted since Daragon started, even after establishing valuable connections with companies like Transport For Wales to match young people up with jobs here. He said: “We have limited understanding of who these people are and why they are leaving, but we are seeing a significant net loss in people aged 15-29.”  

Not-for-profit organisation GlobalWelsh, based in Cwmbran, have also been conducting research into what is causing young people to move away from Wales for work. Its research will be published at the end of November. 

When asked what he expects the latest figures will show about the ‘brain drain’ problem, James said: “There are a certain number of pull factors including job prospects, transport, universities and leisure opportunities. The question is what can we do to intervene.” 

He pointed out that Wales offers numerous opportunities across various sectors but people are just not aware of them.

If Daragon goes on to win this award, James said: “This will raise awareness about our message for others to see.”