RISE UP Success Story: Zahra Campbell

RISE UP CEO Roman Dibden, Pictured with Zahra during her Work Experience Placement.

At RISE UP, we’re proud to support young people as they take their next steps into work, education, or training. Every journey is unique, and today we’re sharing Zahra’s story - from leaving college unsure of her direction, to gaining confidence, work experience, and ultimately securing a full-time role that has set her on a positive path forward.

Before RISE UP:

After finishing her A levels and leaving a job at H&M, Zahra found herself uncertain about her next steps. Although she initially planned to take some time off in the summer and then go to university, she questioned whether it was the right path for her.

Zahra felt that school heavily pushed the university route without providing much support for alternative options if a student was not interested in university or an apprenticeship. She found her biggest barrier to be her lack of exposure to other opportunities and limited information and signposting from college, and she was unsure how to navigate her future.

Her experience with RISE UP: Zahra heard about RISE UP through word of mouth and decided to explore what they offered. From the start, she received tailored support, including CV guidance, signposting, and one-to-one sessions with the team.

She was also given the opportunity to build her confidence through a short paid work experience placement, which gave her insight into the world of work and helped her develop practical skills in a professional environment. This stepping stone proved invaluable in preparing her for future applications.

Through RISE UP, Zahra was then connected to an employer and supported throughout the hiring process, including pre- and post-interview sessions.

Accessing employment through RISE UP:

Zahra was introduced to Mears Group and began the recruitment process. She found that she received a great deal of guidance and reassurance both from RISE UP and Mears Group, which helped her build confidence in a relaxed, inclusive interview setting.

She described the hiring process as very smooth, comfortable, and overall very positive. She was brought in for an interview, provided with feedback, and received a job offer all on the same day. At each stage, she was met with professionalism, openness, and kindness.

Now settling in with Mears Group as a Customer Service Agent, she has had an overwhelmingly positive experience. From the welcoming team and thorough training to the gradual transition into full working hours, she’s found the environment to be nurturing, inclusive, and supportive.

Even with her manager on annual leave, other team members have stepped in to support her, showing the strong sense of community and care within the company. She’s been impressed by how approachable everyone is and how her questions are always met with kindness and encouragement.

This role has shown her that there are viable, fulfilling career paths outside university, offering both financial independence and room for growth. She’s now focused on saving, with ambitions to travel and invest in her future, and feels well supported by both her employer and RISE UP.

A final note from Zahra:

“It can be very daunting starting your first full-time job, but with the care and support from both RISE UP and Mears Group, the process can feel exciting and fulfilling!

If I could give one piece of advice to other young people considering support from RISE UP, it would be: Go for it, their sole purpose is to help and support you.”

Ready to take your next step?

Zahra’s story is proof that there are many different routes into a successful and fulfilling future and that you don’t have to figure it out alone.

If you’re a young person looking for guidance, work experience, or support into employment, get in touch with RISE UP today.