In October 2019, I joined the princes trust, I started by doing a four day group activity, which was so much fun but I was so nervous as I was going to spend four days as an induction to the trust with complete strangers. I felt completely out of my comfort zone but I pushed myself to enjoy every moment that came my way. Turned out to be the best four days ever. It was so much fun!
By the last day of the four days (fourth day you have an one to one with a member of staff) I went for my one to one, which again I was nervous for but talking to one of the members of staff who I had spent the last three days with, it made it easier for me to slowly open up to him about what I wanted out of the princes trust and where they could help to lead me to.
I started their 'Fairbridge' programme. My first session was 'Robot Wars' I was the only girl in that session. I won't spoil what happened in that session, just in case any of you readers haven't done it yet or are just starting the programme. Just so you know it was actually great fun and such a laugh.
My last session was 'canoeing' which was a good day but I'm definitely not built for being on the water, even though I was so embarrassed that day, it was the best thing I did as I tried something new and stepped out of my comfort zone once again.
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I spend three months at the trust and no word of a lie, within the first month myself and people around me could see a difference in my confidence. I met some lovely people and I made some amazing friends who some have become my best friends.
I enjoyed every session, I tried to do all sessions if I could as I wanted to know what I liked and what I didn't. I even tried tasks that involved heights, even though each time I either cried or nearly cried because I have a fear of heights.
I pushed myself to do these tasks each time.
Each session was completely different and each session pushed me personally more and more to prove to myself that I can do anything I put my mind too.
When I did have a wobble or found myself struggling, I tried to push myself more and tell myself that I can do this, but every member of staff I had for every session, gave me the most encouraging support that made me feel like I can do it. I actually became semi-confident in asking for help when I was confused or lacking the confidence in myself.
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Towards the third month, I was approached by my mentor at the trust. He told me there was a programme starting for a work experience with Marks and Spencer's. At first I hesitated as I didn't think I was ready for work as I had a not so nice experience with work before hand, so the thought of going back to a work environment, scared me.
Thankfully I spoke to my friend as he was thinking of doing the work experience opportunity as well.
After a good think and many talks to the princes trust, family and friends. I decided to go for it. The work experience was for four weeks. Unfortunately my friend didn't get into the same shop as me but every Monday, the group got together, which was nice because I got to hang out with my friend and make new friends with the rest of the group.
During the last week of the work experience, we all had to a presentation which I was super nervous for (as we had to talk in front of 50 family and friends) but I got through it with the help of my best friend.
Myself with my certificates and prop
on the presentation day
During the last week of the work experience, we all had to a presentation which I was super nervous for (as we had to talk in front of 50 family and friends) but I got through it with the help of my best friend.
on the presentation day
Doing the work experience was the best thing I ever did, I enjoyed every moment. I was lucky to get the job at Marks and Spencer's, so did my friends, still in different stores but it was awesome that all my friends got the job, as we all worked so hard. Sadly, due to this pandemic it's on pause at the moment but I am going to fight to get back at the job.
alongside me
Thank you for reading this post, sorry its so long!
comment below what you've achieved that has changed your life
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To get in contact with the princes trust, you can go on their website for more information
