Volunteer spotlight: Sonia’s story

Being a mentor for Breadwinners was an amazing experience, especially with what is happening in the world right now.

I was matched with Imrane, a lovely young man with a tremendous passion for sports and football, Manchester United to be more precise!

Breaking the ice

Our first day at the market was great and we managed to get to know each other. I found out that his favourite player was Neymar and at that time I was watching a documentary about Neymar on Netflix so it was a perfect ice breaker!

Week by week I could see that Imrane was progressing and developing new skills. He was more comfortable talking to customers and getting to know them, as well as naming a few types of bread.

Overcoming challenges

The last three weeks of the programme were slightly difficult as he was a bit demotivated and unwilling to finish the programme. I encouraged him to continue, pointing out to him that we were in the final weeks of the programme and he had done so well to get this far that he deserved to be at graduation! It was at times challenging to persuade him but with the help of the Breadwinners team we managed to get him to finish and graduate!

Highlights

The highlight of the programme is to help someone to shape their future and get prepared for adult life in a different country. One great lesson I take from being a mentor is that time is all we've got! If you don't have time.. find time! My advice for future mentors at Breadwinners would be to don't forget to have fun!

I would like to thank Imrane for all his hard work. Well done, you did! 

To all Breadwinners team members thank you for the work you do and for changing people's lives. I am forever grateful for this wonderful experience!

P.S my Breadwinners bread is spelt sourdough

Thank you Sonia for all the time and energy you put into Breadwinners!

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