This week, we had the privilege of catching up with Brogan, a determined young man who successfully completed our Building Aspirations Programme and has since secured an exciting job that aligns with his passions. Brogan’s journey is a testament to resilience, growth, and the transformative power of tailored support. Through RISE UP, he has developed essential skills, accessed new opportunities, and gained the confidence to step into a promising future.
Before RISE UP: Finding Direction
Like many young people leaving college, I felt uncertain about my next steps. I had explored a variety of subjects - digital media and production, construction, and cooking - but hadn’t found a clear career path. While I had gained a broad range of technical skills, I lacked essential employability tools such as CV writing, interview techniques, and professional communication skills. These gaps left me feeling lost and unprepared for the job market. It was through an employability programme with Barnardo’s Children’s Charity that I was introduced to RISE UP’s Building Aspirations Programme, and that’s when everything started to change.
Brogan’s Journey with RISE UP
Enrolling in the Building Aspirations Programme was one of the best decisions I’ve made! The programme equipped me with invaluable skills that have been instrumental in my career journey. I developed confidence, improved my communication skills, and learned interview techniques that I had never been taught before. The programme also introduced me to a network of like-minded young people who shared similar challenges, which reassured me that I wasn’t alone in this journey.
One of the most impactful aspects of the programme was the focus on body language and non-verbal communication. I had never realised how much employers assess from your posture, eye contact, and gestures before you even speak! Learning these subtle yet crucial details gave me a new level of confidence in professional settings.
The panel discussions with industry professionals were particularly inspiring. Hearing real-life career stories made the lessons come alive and showed me that no career path is linear, there are endless opportunities if you’re open to them. These sessions gave me clarity on how to align my strengths and interests with potential career paths.
Beyond the classroom, RISE UP provided me with access to incredible real-world opportunities. One of the standout experiences was attending the Manchester Tech Festival, where I gained exposure to the tech industry, learned about emerging trends, and connected with industry professionals. At first, I was nervous about networking, but by the end of the event, I had built meaningful connections and discovered exciting career possibilities in tech.
Another life-changing opportunity was applying for and receiving a scholarship-funded laptop, which has been a game-changer. This support allowed me to stay on top of job applications, remote learning, and personal projects. Having this resource significantly improved my productivity and ability to work independently.
A Bright Future Ahead
I am thrilled to share that I have secured a role as an Aviation Security Officer at Manchester Airport, starting next month! Working in aviation has always been a dream of mine, and I’m incredibly proud to have achieved this milestone. I have always wanted a job that allows me to help others, and this role perfectly aligns with that aspiration.
The skills and confidence I developed through RISE UP played a pivotal role in helping me secure this opportunity. From perfecting my interview technique to understanding workplace expectations, I felt fully prepared to take this next step.
Sharing the news with my grandad was an unforgettable moment - he was so proud, and that meant the world to me. With my first pay check, I’ve already planned to buy myself a watch, start a savings account, and explore investment opportunities. Financial independence is something I’ve been striving for, and I’m also excited to contribute towards my household’s expenses and support my grandmother, who I live with. This sense of responsibility and empowerment feels incredibly rewarding.
Reflecting on my journey, I can confidently say that RISE UP has been instrumental in shaping my future. The programme gave me the tools, mentorship, and real-world exposure that traditional education didn’t provide. For any young person feeling uncertain about their career, my advice is simple: go for it! This programme is an incredible opportunity to gain clarity, build confidence, and unlock doors to a brighter future. With the right support, guidance, and determination, you can achieve anything!
Thank you, RISE UP, for believing in me and empowering me to believe in myself.
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