Celebrating My Journey to the Intern Choice Award and the Power of Dreams

I'm filled with immense gratitude and excitement as I sit down to share my journey. Recently, I had the incredible honour of being nominated for the Intern Choice Award by Hft, an organisation dedicated to empowering young individuals across the UK. This recognition is not just a personal milestone; it reflects the hard work, support, and belief in dreams that characterise the experience of everyone involved in this internship program.

Thank you, Hft, for highlighting the achievements of young people who are pursuing their passions! Building a strong community to uplift each other is vital, and I am genuinely thankful to be part of such an inspiring network.

A Heartfelt Acknowledgement

Before I delve into my journey, I would like to extend a huge thank you to some remarkable individuals who played pivotal roles in my success: Amanda Muir, Rizwan Habib, Adam Caton, and the rest of the incredible team. Your unwavering support and guidance have made a world of difference in my internship experience.

Together, we've navigated challenges, celebrated wins, and fostered an environment where growth and learning can truly flourish. The team's dedication to inclusivity and empowerment has inspired me to aim higher and dream bigger. For instance, their commitment to providing tailored feedback made me more confident in my contributions.

My Internship Experience and the Intern Choice Award

My journey as a supported intern at NHS Liverpool has been nothing short of transformative. From my first day, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves. However, as I immersed myself in the various responsibilities, I quickly developed a deep connection with the work I was doing.

During my internship, I tackled projects aimed at making internal resources more accessible. This involved revising training courses, ensuring emails communicated essential information clearly, and simplifying brochures and policies. I recall revising a training module that had previously confused many staff members, resulting in a 30% increase in understanding, as indicated by surveys I conducted afterwards. My personal experiences empowered me to recognise the need for accessibility, truly, and I embraced every opportunity to effect change in this area.

The Work Operations Award

Receiving the Work Operations Award from Hft was a long-awaited acknowledgement of my hard work and dedication. This award recognises my achievements at NHS Liverpool and highlights the collective effort in making workplaces more inclusive.

Awards like this can create a ripple effect, motivating others to embrace their roles and strive for their own goals. Each small contribution matters, and the ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion makes a significant impact.

A Passion for Advocacy

My internship has sparked a passion for advocating for accessibility and inclusion in all areas of life. I believe that ensuring these values are embedded in organisations is essential. Accessibility should not be an afterthought; it must be part of every organisation's core mission.

I envision a future where I can continue this advocacy and secure part-time work that aligns with my goal of promoting inclusive practices. Though the journey may be filled with challenges, the chance to influence positive change keeps my motivation strong. For instance, studies show that organisations promoting diversity see a 35% increase in performance, making this work vital.

Words of Encouragement

To anyone considering a supported internship program, I want to share this from the bottom of my heart: You can achieve anything you set your mind to. This program has the potential to change lives, as it has mine.

Whether you face hurdles or uncertainties, pour your heart into your tasks. Each small step takes you closer to your dreams. Trust me, if you remain committed, the results will be worth it.

The Importance of Supported Internships

Supported internships are invaluable not only for individuals like me but also for employers and communities. These programs equip young people with essential skills and a sense of purpose. They offer a platform for sharing unique perspectives, leading to transformative changes within organisations.

Moreover, when employers invest in inclusive practices and offer internships, they enhance their workplace culture. This creates an environment that encourages innovation and diverse thinking. Inclusion is crucial, and by fostering spaces that make everyone feel valued, we contribute to building a better society for all.

Final Thoughts: Pursue Your Dreams

As I conclude this blog post, I would like to leave you with one final message. Keep pursuing your dreams and goals because I believe in you! No matter the obstacles, when you commit to something, you can achieve remarkable things. I am proud of the progress I’ve made, and I hope you are proud of yourselves too.

Claim your space, challenge the status quo, and let your ambitions know no bounds.

Thank you once again to Hft, my supportive team, and everyone who contributes to creating inclusive workplaces! I look forward to seeing what the future holds for all of us. Let’s continue this journey together!