Iram’s Story from support to employment

Iram Shaikh, an international student, found Witton Lodge Community Association’s employment support services and reached out to us for help in progressing her career.

We provided Iram with wrap-around employability support, including CV development, interview skills and confidence building. Through this tailored support, we helped Iram to secure a paid internship with the Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI) team at Aston University.

Iram has now secured employment, marking a significant achievement in her employment journey. The Witton Lodge team remain in contact with her, providing ongoing guidance and support where needed.

Iram’s story demonstrates the value of accessible, person-centred employment support and the importance of maintaining relationships beyond initial outcomes, ensuring residents feel supported as they progress into work and build their careers.

Iram addressing the audience at the Youth Trailblazer Celebration event, sharing her journey.

In March Reece attended the WLCA Youth Trailblazer Celebration Event, to honour the achievements of local residents in reaching a significant milestone for youth employment, social entrepreneurship and volunteering in North Birmingham, and spoke to the audience about his experience and journey with Witton Lodge.

Looking for employment and skills support? Connect To Work can support people aged 16+ facing barriers to employment, while WOW! supports 18–21-year-olds to progress into work, education, training or apprenticeships. Find out which programme could be right for you by calling 0121 382 1930 or emailing gareth.moore@wittonlodge.org.uk.

Iram receiving a certificate celebrating her success from Simon Topman DL.