My A4e - Mandi Smith

I just wanted to say a big thank you to A4e.
I recently gained employment at the Newport branch of A4e as an ESOL Trainer. Prior to this I had been signed off work for over five years due to medical problems. Not wanting to sit around between numerous operations, I decided to go back to college, gaining a HND Distinction in Animal Sciences, a 2:1 BSc Degree in Environmental Management and finally a PGCE Cert Ed in ESOL and Basic and Key Skills.
Despite having applied for numerous jobs, my disability seemed to always be a barrier to my returning to work. I then made an appointment to see Chris Young a pathways advisor for A4e in Cardiff. To my surprise, a week before my appointment I was contacted by an employment agency in regard to the vacancy in Newport, my CV was passed onto the branch and I was invited to attend an interview, with Karen and Amanda.
I was (to my amazement) then offered the job, coincidently the day after I had my meeting with the Pathways officer. I cannot thank the company enough for giving me this chance, as I had begun to think I would never be offered employment and certainly not a job I love as much as this one. The offer was made despite my disability and having a honeymoon booked for September and time off for my wedding in July.
As I think may be obvious this position is like having won the lottery, all the staff are so friendly, as are the members of my class and I love the buzz of seeing others actively engage in the programme and ultimately gain employment (many of whom feel as I did before I was offered this position).
We as a company and myself as an individual can make so much difference to peoples lives, it is amazing to be part of such a active champion to the many disadvantaged and often excluded people who pass through our doors.
I look forward to working for the company for a long time to come and had to write and say a big thank you.