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Building Confidence and Community- Jen’s experience of finding meaningful work

Updated: Dec 3


Meet Jen, a dedicated volunteer who started her journey at Yes for Success (YFS) to reconnect with her skills but found true meaning and community through her work. Jen recently found a role and is making steps towards a fulfilling future. 


She says, "I've been lucky to get a role working as Mental Health First Aid tutor, using my skills in mental health and teaching to provide a valuable course. I have felt very pleased to be able to return to this area of work and I enjoy feeling that it is making a positive contribution to society."

Jen working in the boutique

How did you hear about Yes for Success?

I found Yes for Success through the Volunteer Wellington website while. I was attracted by the organisation's purpose and the variety of roles on offer.

 

Why did you come to us for assistance?

I took up a role with Yes for Success while I was experiencing a lengthy and mentally challenging period out of work while waiting for my visa application to be processed. Volunteering allowed me to maintain a sense of routine, use my skills, and meet new people, enabling me to grow my confidence.

 

How did we help you? 

Through Yes for Success, I was able to reconnect with skills which I hadn’t used for a while. This enabled me to build my confidence to apply for jobs once I received my visa. I also booked an appointment with one of the skilled stylists which helped me feel more self-assured when interviewing for and starting a new job. I have cherished going into a workplace and establishing a work routine, as well as having the opportunity to meet lots of new people from diverse backgrounds. This helped me immeasurably; I feel more positive about returning to the workforce.

 

How did our volunteers make you feel? 

As a volunteer, I am incredibly grateful for the support of the manager, who has shown great trust in me and has given me the space to use my creativity and marketing skills where possible. I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting and working with the other volunteers, and I love feeling part of a little community with the other people who volunteer on the same day as me.

 

Did our programmes meet your expectations?

While volunteering at Yes for Success, I took the opportunity to attend some of their workshops which have been a great opportunity for me to think about my skills and what direction I would like to go in. These free workshops have been a great resource for my personal development.

 

What was the result?

Whilst volunteering with YFS, I was able to get a fulfilling job. I believe that my voluntary role with YFS enabled me to tap into my skillset and feel more optimistic and confident about returning to the workforce.


How would you define success?

For me, success is being connected to my values and feeling like I have a sense of purpose.

 

What advice would you give others?

I recommend reaching out for help and not being afraid to seek out support or opportunities. Unemployment, migration and the pandemic have caused a huge strain on the mental health and confidence of many people and the YFS programmes, styling and volunteer roles can really make you feel like you have something positive to give the world.

 

What next- Have you set any goals? 

I aim to continue volunteering with Yes for Sucess when I can because I enjoy both the connections that I have there, and the roles I get to do. I feel like I have a positive trajectory now and I feel optimistic for the future. I look forward to seeing where my career and hobbies take me.


Jen’s story is a testament to the power of community and the positive impact that volunteering can have on one’s life. Through Yes for Success, she found renewed confidence and a sense of purpose. If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your skills and meet new people, consider joining Yes for Success as a volunteer or supporter.

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