While Russia’s invasion of Ukraine raged on, Hanna was forced from her home as a refugee and sought asylum in the UK in 2022. In Ukraine, Hanna had significant professional experience as a Health and Safety Officer, but she soon discovered that there were significant language barriers preventing her from finding work in Britain. In particular, Hanna lacked the vocational English skills that are an imperative when working in Health and Safety roles in the UK. As a result, Hanna struggled to showcase her expertise in job applications and other professional correspondence.
To best address her language needs, Hanna was referred to the No Limits programme where she received comprehensive, tailored support to assist with her English. With the help of the staff at No Limits, Hanna was able to focus on key areas to help build her confidence. Following a series of one-to-one sessions, Hanna improved her self-belief, motivation and transferrable abilities.
Language challenges aside, Hanna applied herself well to learning the specific terminology required to excel in her preferred role. In addition to this, Kimberly Fox, the No Limits Employability Contracts Manager, helped her with drafting CVs and covering letters that drew from her prior professional experience in Ukraine. Hanna also received job search support which included advice on navigating online platforms as well as step-by-step assistance with filling out job applications and how best to prepare for interviews.
To further develop her English language skills, Hanna initially took on a role in the hospitality sector.
“After arriving in England, I found a job as a housekeeper in a hotel within the first two weeks. I worked in such positions for two years. This period was quite challenging for me; I often faced unpredictable workloads or incomplete payment for my work. I dreamed of finding a better job and achieving a more balanced life. Over time, I learned to understand people better and improve my English.”
Despite the difficulties, Hanna’s English noticeably improved which helped her build confidence. Throughout her time in hospitality, she continued to work closely with Kimberly Fox at No Limits to refine her job application strategies and expand her professional network.
With more confidence and closer support, Hanna began applying for administrative roles that would utilise and advance her organisational and analytical skills. After several job applications and interviews, she successfully secured a position as an Office Administrator. This was a significant achievement for Hanna as it provided her the opportunity to further develop her English in a more aligned career setting.
“The support I received [from No Limits] was invaluable. In my case, it wasn’t just mentorship on professional matters, but also motivating personal communication. I worked with Kimberley Fox, who developed a plan for me to achieve success. She took on much of the burden, and we stayed in constant contact throughout the process. This gave me confidence and the feeling that, in a new country, I have someone who believes in me.”
By applying her past professional experience, she is becoming increasingly valued by her employer. Her successes emphasise her resilience and dedication, as well as proving the value of personalised, holistic assistance in overcoming the various employment barriers that affect refugees.
“I finally felt that in a new country, there was someone who believed in me more than I believed in myself. This gave me the strength and confidence to move forward.”
The support offered to Hanna through No Limits has been instrumental in her professional journey. By assisting her to overcome some initial barriers, Hanna has been able to gain meaningful employment. More broadly, Hanna’s story reveals how a combination of empowerment, skill building and employability support can transform the lives of refugees and enable them to make positive, measurable contributions to their adopted communities.
“Currently, I work in the accounting department for a fuel company. This job gives me confidence in the future and allows me to better care for my son. I now feel stability and assurance in my life, which I had been lacking before.”
Reflecting on her time in No Limits, and in particular, Kimberly Fox, SOFEA’s Employability Contracts Manager, Hanna said,
“Thank you, Kimberley, you are incredible. You make me feel very good about myself and give me confidence to achieve anything. I enjoyed meeting you and am very grateful for your help. Now, I believe in myself much more and I am eager to learn and grow. I am confident that I will either return to my original profession or find a new path where I can be of value to society. Most importantly, I feel that my opportunities are limitless.”
In light of her professional journey from Ukraine to Britain, we asked Hanna if she would recommend the No Limits programme to other refugees in her position,
“Absolutely, I can confidently recommend your programme. It has had a profound impact on me and has helped me overcome many obstacles on my path to success.”
If you’re struggling with employment, No Limits can offer a wide range of personalised assistance from CV writing to interview preparation. If you’d like to know more, click the link.