“I was stuck in a dead‑end job and needed someone to give me a chance,” Casper Helliwell tells us. The chance that changed everything was applying to the IG50 2025. Winning the IG50 gave Casper the opportunity to do what he loves and to prove his value to employers. Through the Boost programme, he received a paid placement at BetaJester, an external development studio, where he quickly made an impression. After just a few weeks, the team moved him onto a paid client project, a moment that shifted how he saw himself: “It made me feel trusted - great for fighting the imposter syndrome.” Casper’s impact was clear. He delivered a playable build the client was happy with, stayed ahead of milestones, and consistently met expectations. BetaJester praised him for solving problems independently, producing high‑quality work, and keeping clients happy - all signs of someone ready for the industry. When we asked Casper what the highlight of the last 12 months has been, it was an easy answer: Casper has stayed on at BetaJester, that initial placement leading to a full time position! Lastly, Casper passes on his wisdom to anyone considering the IG50 2026. “The only way to guarantee failure is to not try in the first place. You’re already doing something great by applying and giving yourself that chance.”