Please help: How do I best position myself to break into M&A/IB/Funds Management

Hi Everyone, I am new to the community and wanted to reach out to yall.

I have grown an interest in IB quite late compare to others, it was during my first full time position in private banking credit which I had the chance to see what the more successful people do for their livings. At the time I researched intensely into consulting, IB, funds management and other top tier finance paths and have grown an interest to explore IB further. I decided to undertake CFA and so far learning towards Level 2. I enjoy most of the topics related to M&A and valuation, and I really do see myself develop a long term career in IB. On top of that I also took modelling courses so I'd be familiar with LBO, Merger, 3 Way and DCF modelling

I'm currently a commercial analyst in a leading global tech consulting company, undertaking complex excel modelling for pre-sales consulting pricing, and providing commercial advisory to senior leaders. Although the role is quite well regarded internally within finance department, I don't see myself doing this for the long term. My challenges to get into IB are listed below: - no close friends/family in the IB industry - no relevant M&A deals experience - top local university (B.Com degree) however WAM 69% and no involvement in extracurricular societies (Didn't realize the importance of marks while in university, a regret of mine)

I want to understand the below from professionals within the IB industry: - Is it really impossible for someone like me to break in at the entry level? - If possible, how should I be trying to position myself? - If anyone knows a place hiring, please kindly let me know

Thanks all, appreciate it and stay safe!