20/07/21 

The past 16 months has been like no other but that hasn't stopped Bayan Ali's dedication and commitment in finding work during the most challenging of times.

Bayan, a young person with a passion and ambition of working with young people, embarked on an exciting journey finding a job during lockdown with the help and support from her Youth Mentor at Inspire 2 Work (I2W).

I2W is a voluntary service which helps young people to find work, progress into training or further education to give them the best opportunity to find employment.

Inspired by the scheme and being mentored,Bayan has successfully been appointed as a project worker and now mentors young people within the same team!

Bayansaid: "At the very beginning I needed a lot of help in how to look for work. It all started in December 2019 where I met the Into Work team in Job Club at the Central Library. In addition to job searching, I received a lot of emotional support and encouragement. My mentor also prepared me for my interviews which improved my overall confidence."

"Throughout my placement I have been able to help Council clients overcome their barriers to employment which is very rewarding because it was something I personally struggled with. The transition from a customer to a project worker has been an exciting journey and I am extremely grateful to achieve this opportunity thanks to I2W. I couldn't have asked for a better opportunity."

For more information aboutInspire 2 Work, please  click  here

  Young people can also access a range of support and advice from qualifications to mental health, by visiting one of the following websites:

👉 https://www.cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/resident/Schools-and-learning/Services-for-young-people/whats-next/Pages/default.aspx

👉 http://cardiffyouthservices.wales/

👉 https://hwb.gov.wales/zones/keeping-safe-online/support-services/confidential-support

👉 https://www.wjec.co.uk/home/supporting-teachers-and-learners-during-coronavirus/your-wellbeing

👉 https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/for-children-and-young-people

We're sharing the stories of our children and young people each week on Cardiff Newsroom and our social media channels - just search  #PositiveFuturesCDF #ChildFriendlyCDF

We hope you find these stories helpful and inspiring.