Thonuma Hassan started working with us two years ago, after securing a six-month position through the Kickstarter programme. Now, Thonuma is leaving to start an exciting new role with Ethnic Minorities & Youth Support Team Wales. As we say goodbye to Thonuma and wish her well, we spoke to her about her career journey so far and what she’s learnt along the way:
“I was a recent business management graduate, and working for Virgin Media, but I knew it wasn’t right for me, so I handed in my notice and started looking for a role that was more meaningful. Once my employment ended, I started claiming Universal Credit and was assigned a work coach who would advise me on different roles available. I’m a CCHA tenant and stumbled upon the Kickstarter programme on their website.
“The Kickstarter programme, which has now ended, was a government scheme aimed at supporting 16 to 24-year-olds claiming Universal Credit into work, through a sixth month paid placement.
“I was successful in my application and interview and joined CCHA as a Community Regeneration Assistant in March 2022. Walking into the office just after the lift of COVID restrictions, I vividly remember the warm welcome and the sense of camaraderie that immediately put me at ease. Despite my initial nerves, everyone made me feel like I belonged from day one.
“My role as a Community Regeneration Assistant exceeded my expectations. From organising projects to managing bookings and creating posters, I felt trusted and supported with responsibilities that allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. In just two years, I went from knowing nothing to knowing the role inside out.
“However, it’s time for me to embark on a new chapter, and I’m excited to be joining Ethnic Minorities & Youth Support Team Wales (EYST) as a housing case worker, where I’ll continue to work within the community and housing sector. I’ll be able to use the skills and experiences I’ve gained at CCHA in this new capacity, from event management to youth work.”
If you’re over the age of 18, identify from an ethnically diverse background, and are long-term unemployed, our Get into Housing programme might be just the thing to help ickstart your career. We also have the JETS team, dedicated to providing a one-to-one mentoring service to tenants and community members.