When Loveness arrived in the UK from Zimbabwe, she carried with her years of experience, a strong work ethic, and hope for a fresh start. Back home, she had worked as an assistant food and beverage manager, confidently leading teams and managing busy environments. But in the UK, confidence slowly eroded.

Month after month, she applied for jobs and waited. And waited. Applications went unanswered, interviews never came, and self-doubt crept in. Despite her skills, Loveness began to question her worth in a job market that felt unfamiliar and unwelcoming.

Everything changed when she discovered FareShare Midlands.

The Role of the I-Can Employability Programme

Initially, Loveness joined as a volunteer after seeing a post on social media. She was drawn to the organisation’s mission to fight food waste and support communities, but what she found went far deeper than volunteering alone. Through FareShare Midlands, she was introduced to the I-Can employability programme, a turning point in her journey.

The programme did not just focus on finding a job. It focused on rebuilding Loveness as a person. With one-to-one support, her CV was reshaped to reflect her achievements and leadership experience. Interview preparation sessions helped her articulate her strengths with confidence. Basic skills and life skills workshops strengthened not only her employability, but her wellbeing, resilience, and belief in herself.

Crucially, Loveness felt seen. The employability team did not treat her as another job seeker. They listened, encouraged, and believed in her potential even when she struggled to do so herself.

That belief paid off.

A Meaningful Step into Employment

Today, Loveness is employed as a Learner Engagement Officer at FareShare Midlands, a role that brings her journey full circle. She now supports others who are facing the same uncertainty she once felt, helping them build confidence, develop skills, and take their own steps towards employment. Her lived experience allows her to connect deeply with learners, offering not just guidance, but genuine hope.

“My role at FareShare Midlands will allow me to share my experiences with others and to give them hope,” she says. “It’s not just about the programme. The employability team go above and beyond to help.”

Loveness’s story shows the true impact of tailored employability support. The I-Can programme does not just help people with their jobs. It restores confidence, unlocks potential, and creates a ripple effect by empowering individuals to go on and empower others.

From job searching to changing lives, Loveness is living proof that with the right support, opportunity, and encouragement, people can rebuild their futures and help others do the same.

Get Involved

If you are an employer, funder, or partner who wants to be part of creating stories like Loveness’s, get in touch with FareShare Midlands to find out how you can support or get involved in our employability programmes.

Number: 07940 710109

Website: https://www.faresharemidlands.org.uk/skillsshare-employability-programmes