Junade

“I was 22 when I joined the Amy Foundation, I came through the Hospitality programme, in the culinary group. I had always enjoyed cooking and being in the kitchen and wanted to further develop these skills.

As well as cooking, The Amy Foundation helped me develop personally, improving things such as my confidence. Before the Amy Foundation, I was, and still am, an introvert, I was shy and hated speaking in front of people. However, with the support of my mentor, Chef Paul, I became a lot more confident. The mentors at the Amy Foundation are really supportive and push you to do your best because they see the potential. Chef Paul helped me develop my culinary skills, I learnt about different cuisines, how to use knives correctly, and how to turn basic ingredients into meals. By the end of the three months, I was much better at cooking and English!

I am now 26 and working in the Operations & Logistics Department at the Amy Foundation! I arrange transport, collect donations, and help to organise deliveries. This is a job I have been able to secure through the work of the YSD [Youth Skills Development] programme. Without the Amy Foundation, I wouldn’t have the confidence or the communication skills needed for interviewing! I am very grateful.

In the future, I hope to finish my degree and get a job in office management. The Amy Foundation has helped me to find a passion in admin work, so I hope to have a career in this one day!

I wouldn’t change anything about my experience with the Amy Foundation, I believe that everything happens for a reason! I have been able to meet so many great people, develop my personal skills, and discover a new passion.

My words of wisdom are you can change someone’s life every day! Whether it be with a smile, a hug, or kind words! Just like Chef Paul pushed me to do better, I think it is important to sacrifice your own time and energy for others as the rewards will be paid off! Thank you to the Amy Foundation, you have changed my life.”