Ivana* joined the BBO Bridges project in 2021 after she had shut down her business due to COVID. She used to have her own company importing and exporting wine for Italian restaurants. She worked with organisations overseas, managed the business and did all the paperwork by herself. Shutting down her business was the most difficult decision for her, and she did not know where to go or what support she could get.
At first, she volunteered at the church. She loved to cook, so offered to help with cooking and preparing the room for events and celebrations. She found joy in these tasks and helping people in need. It made her realise the career path she wanted to take, but she didn’t know where to start. That was when she found Steps To Work and joined the BBO Bridges project.
Our job coach Kirsty worked with Ivana to help her realise her potential. Ivana also took advice and guidance from Kirsty on how to reach her goals. All her appointments were one on one which allowed deeper conversation helping her overcome the fear of trying something new. Ivana had never have an interview and was not sure how to write a CV, so we supported her with interviewing skills and updating her CV. With our help, Ivana started applying for jobs and filling in applications forms.
She was impressed by the motivation of our team. She was grateful to get the training and support she needed and deserved to start all over again. She felt that Kirsty was very helpful during her job search by always encouraging her to believe in herself and working with her all the way.
With the support, Ivana successfully secured employment, and here is what she wants to share with us:
“Today, after months of searching, I have finally found and started a job which gratifies me a lot. Thank you Steps To Work for the extraordinary work you do for those who are in need.”
Life has not been easy for everyone during and after the pandemic. Resilience and confidence are what we needed to overcome the hardship. We are so happy to see the progress Ivana has made and we wish her best of luck with this new career path!
Bridges is funded by the European Social Fund and the National Lottery Community Fund. For more information about the project, please visit stepstowork.co.uk/walsall-bridges/ or contact us on 01922 627555.
*Due to confidentiality, the name of the participant has been changed.
