If you had no job experience and you found a company looking for someone with job experience (mandatory), would you still contact them (while being honest about your job experience) and ask for the job?
I have done such a thing few days ago, and guess what, I got a positive response on my proposal. They are thinking about giving me a shot. I thought they would probably ignore me and think I'm crazy, but hey, miracles still exist 😀
I've learned that if you find a job that seems perfect for you, you should apply no matter what. If I take my dad as an example, he applied for the dream job of leading an EU project in the 90s. Still, he 1) didn't have the right nationality (it was a job available for Danish people only), and 2) one of the most important requirements were to be fluent in French, something he wasn't. He applied despite that, and guess what, he got the job.
When I applied for my first job, obviously I had no experience. But even if the wanted ad said they needed someone with 2 years of work experience, perhaps the bank considered me for my academic achievement or maybe I did good in the interview. When I got promoted to a managerial position, it was my turn to interview applicants. Now I always give points to academic excellence more than the experience unless the vacant position is in the supervisory level which requires work experience.
I would suggest going for it anyway as they might bend that requirement if someone shows up that looks promising. At worst, they say no so you really have nothing to lose really by applying.
I would rather approach them for the interview though I don't have job experience. You might not know that your knowledge and certificates can get you the job that they are looking for.
