Meet Ethan - A Rise UP Success Story

Where were you before coming into contact with RISE UP and how did you hear about us? The past year has been challenging, but also a time of growth. For the last eight months, I’ve been supported by Emmaus, a charity that provides accommodation and paid work for those experiencing homelessness. Living in their supported housing and working in various roles has helped me rebuild and regain confidence.

Through their relationship with RISE UP within the Elevate Partnership in Salford, I registered for the Building Aspirations Programme, keen to keep moving forward and building a better future.

Working for Emmaus, I have been able to gain a sense of routine and purpose, and gradually develop my confidence and skills. However, I’ve always had big ambitions. One day, I’d love to work abroad in the hospitality industry or build a career in football coaching. But one thing I’ve struggled with for a long time is being in unfamiliar environments, especially around new people. That kind of social anxiety can be a real barrier in the world of work, and I knew it was something I needed to tackle if I was going to move forward. 

What was your journey with RISE UP?

I joined the Building Aspirations Programme unsure of what to expect, and I was really nervous about being around so many new people. However, over the course of the 2 days, I found myself relaxing and becoming more open to the support that was being offered.

What stood out most for me was being pushed outside of my comfort zone! This is what I found most daunting, and where the real growth happened. By the second day, I found myself confidently speaking, sharing, and connecting in ways I wasn’t sure were possible. A major milestone was delivering an elevator pitch about myself on camera, which was something I was sure I couldn’t do. But during the programme, I found the courage, and I felt really proud and accomplished afterwards. I've come to realise how valuable it is to talk about myself with confidence, especially when it comes to job interviews and the workplace.

The money management module was another highlight. Learning how to handle finances properly is something that’ll benefit me for life, and I left with real tools I can use day to day.

Where Are You Now? Right now, I’m working on applying for some courses with the help of the scholarship I received through RISE UP. That scholarship has opened doors I didn’t think were available to me. It’s giving me the chance to take the next step toward a career I care about, whether that’s hospitality or coaching.

Working with RISE UP has really helped me! The programme didn’t just boost my confidence - it reshaped the way I see myself. I’ve gone from avoiding new situations to feeling ready for them. I’ve started to trust myself more, and that’s a powerful feeling. 

Advice to Others If you’re a young person thinking about joining RISE UP, honestly go for it. Just throw yourself into it and enjoy it. You might feel nervous like I did, but that’s okay. You don’t need to have it all figured out - you just need to show up and be open.

You’ll be surprised by how much you grow in just a short space of time. You’ll meet new people, learn skills that matter, and come away feeling more confident in yourself. RISE UP gave me more than just opportunities- it gave me belief in myself. And that’s something I’ll carry forward in everything I do.