As part of Welsh Charities Week / Wythnos Elusennau Cymru, we’re sharing reflections from our Wales team, the people who bring Working Options to life in classrooms, communities and conversations every day.
Today, we’re spotlighting Aimee, whose background in teaching and deep connection to Welsh community values shape the way she supports young people across the country. Her reflections speak to fairness, confidence, community spirit and the quiet determination she sees in Welsh students every day.
Something you appreciate about the Working Options team
I love how committed the team is to giving young people real confidence and opportunity. Everyone genuinely cares, and it shows! We all come from a range of different backgrounds, all brought together with one common purpose – to help young people realise their full potential.
A moment this year that reminded you why you do this work
It’s hard to pick a particular moment – as every day feels like an important reminder about why I do this work. If I had to pick one, it would be the Working Options Inclusion Network Event at Techniquest, where groups of young people actively networked, sourced opportunities and increased their confidence on the day and beyond!
A teacher, subject, or moment from your Welsh education that still influences you
My secondary school History teacher was (and still is) a great source of inspiration for me – he encouraged me to think differently, and believe in my voice. He supported me through my GCSEs, and then later on my PGCE placement where he became my mentor. His lessons on attitude, self-belief and positive mindset supported me throughout my secondary school journey, into my teaching career and still shapes how I support young people today in my current role.
A part of growing up or studying in Wales that you carry into your role today
Growing up in Wales, and especially in Swansea, taught me the importance of community and fairness. There is nothing quite like the community spirit in Wales! I now live in Cardiff, and that spirit is so strong in everyone I speak to and interact with. That belief guides how I approach every part of my role.
Something you think is special about the aspirations or spirit of Welsh students
From my teaching days, I could see that the students have a quiet determination, they’re ambitious but grounded, and they bring a real sense of pride in where they come from, which is important moving into the next stage of their life.
A charity in Wales that has had an impact on you, your family, or your local area
One charity that has supported my family massively is the MS Society Wales – although a national charity, the Welsh team have been a source of infinite support for my family after my mam’s diagnosis, and continue to be to this day. We fundraise for them whenever we have the opportunity, to show our gratitude for them, and to ensure that other people affected by MS in Wales can receive the same level of support.
Something that always lifts your spirits on a busy day
If you know me, you know I love a chat (and I will talk to you about anything!). My colleagues really lift my spirits on busy days and knowing that they’re there to support me is a huge help. After work I love to walk my dog, Bilbo, and knowing a good book I can get stuck into is awaiting me really brightens my day.
Monday we heard from our colleague, Chris Mann, and you can catch up on his interview here, and be sure to check back over the week to hear from more colleagues across Wales.
Interested in joining the team, we are currently recruiting a Project Coordinator to the team, find out more here.
