Marfat Mohammed is a Diversity Project Assistant at CCHA, supporting applicants on the Get into Housing and Pathway to Board programmes led by CCHA, alongside housing associations across South Wales. Just three years ago however, Marfat was one of those people applying to join the Get into Housing programme, in the hopes of gaining some work experience.
“In March 2022, I was at a party thrown by the Love Yourself group, to celebrate International Women’s Day. The group was funded by a CCHA initiative called, Flourish, which was aimed at supporting tenants and communities. We had invited Hayley Selway to join us in our celebrations, as the Chief Executive at that time.
“I found myself dancing and chatting with Hayley, and she told me about a new programme called Get into Housing, and encouraged me to apply. I wasn’t employed at the time, as I was busy raising a family, and just didn’t think I had any skills or experiences to offer.
“Through the programme, I was offered a 16-week placement as a community development assistant with the Communities Team at CCHA. When the placement ended, the role was made available as a 12 month full time contract, which I was offered as a job share with another colleague. I ended up in that role for two years, until a restructure in the communities team created a Diversity Project Assistant vacancy. The job was part time, for 21 hours a week, which was ideal for me and fits around family life. I’ve been in the role for 10 months now, and it feels like a dream come true.
“I never, ever thought I’d be working, let alone on a project and in an organisation like this. I didn’t go to university, and for a long time, I was just focused on raising my family. This experience has completely transformed my life. I’m more confident, I’m doing something for myself, something that’s just mine.
“I now get to help others who, like me, feel like they lack the experience to kickstart their careers. I have the insight and the experience to push people, and encourage them. And when people apply for the project, they see a real-life example of how successful it can be. It’s not just about work experience; it’s about real, lasting change.
“I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity, for the changes it’s brought to my life and the lives of others. I know the barriers people in my community face when trying to get into employment. This project is amazing. I’m still amazed at how I see myself now, and how others see me too.
“Being part of the community, people come to me for advice and support. I can be an inspiration to others, and that’s what makes all of this feel so worthwhile.”
Apply for a place on the programme here.