Ali’s Journey: From S5 to Employment with Pickfords
Ali’s journey shows how much can change when a young person gets the right support, encouragement and opportunities.
Ali first joined Working Rite through our Choices programme while in S5 at Castlebrae Community Campus. With support from his Project Coordinator, Leanne, he progressed into our Chances programme, gaining experience through a 12-week placement with Pickfords.
His placement led to an offer of employment, and Ali has now started his new role with Pickfords. We asked Leanne, Nicola from Castlebrae Community Campus and our CEO, Graham Robertson, to reflect on Ali’s journey and the impact of the partnerships and support that helped him get there.
Leanne, Ali’s Project Coordinator at Working Rite
“When Ali first joined Working Rite, he struggled to see his own potential. Today, he is in work, thriving, and confidently sharing his story to inspire others. His journey hasn't always been easy, but his determination, resilience and willingness to keep moving forward have been inspiring to watch.
The young person who first joined us found it difficult to believe in himself. Over time, through trust, support and the opportunities he embraced, he has grown into a confident, reliable and hardworking young man.
Ali's story shows what's possible when young people are given the right support at the right time. I couldn't be prouder of everything he has achieved.”
Nicola, Deputy Head at Castlebrae Community Campus
“Ali has always been a great young man who was well liked by staff and pupils. He was a quieter member of the year group and worked hard with his learning.
Ali began working with Working Rite in S5 and absolutely flourished. He continued to attend school and engaged incredibly well with Working Rite one day a week. The package of support was perfect for Ali in his transition years as he has continued to work with Working Rite post school and has now secured employment through the supported pathways offered by Working Rite.
Ali has grown massively in confidence through his engagement with Leanne and the team. The tailored support, encouragement and opportunities that he was part of in this programme were perfect to meet his needs and allow him to focus on key skills for life. We are delighted to see Ali doing so well and wish him all the best. A massive thank you to Working Rite who have made a genuine lifetime difference to Ali’s life.”
Graham Robertson, CEO of Working Rite
“Ali’s story highlights the importance of strong partnerships in creating opportunities for young people. Through our work with Castlebrae Community Campus, Columba 1400, Pickfords and Aberdeen Group, Ali has been able to access early intervention, explore new possibilities and progress into employment.
These organisations working together to provide real Change That Works for young people highlights the strength of collaboration. We’re very proud of Ali’s achievements and will continue to support him through our Connections mentoring programme as he settles into his new job.”
What's next for Ali?
Ali has now progressed into the third phase of our Working Rite Model, Connections. He has been matched with a mentor who will continue to support him over the next 12 months as he settles into employment and works towards his next goals.
Ali’s journey is a great example of what can be achieved through ongoing support and strong partnerships between young people, schools, employers, charities and communities.
We’re delighted to celebrate everything Ali has achieved and look forward to seeing what comes next.
A huge thank you to Leanne, Nicola, Castlebrae Community Campus, Columba 1400, Pickfords, Aberdeen Group Charitable Trust and all our funder partners for being part of Ali’s journey.
