Monday, April 7, 2014

What we do matters!

Last week a few of us at my company watched the Girl Rising movie about 7 girls around the world struggling to get an education, and it touched me deeply. Today I leave the company I have worked with for almost four years and it got me thinking about the work that we do here.

What we do each day matters
Although most of the participants who come to our training workshops have been lucky enough to have had a good education, the skills and knowledge we share each day still changes their lives in simple yet powerful ways.

A brave journey
Over the years, I have seen the fear and stress in the eyes of many participants as they come out of the lifts on our office floor. It can be very uncomfortable to embark on a journey of learning as it exposes gaps and questions deeply held beliefs. But the bravery, courage and honesty that people bring into the training room is inspirational. It can create real change. What we do matters.

A sense of confidence
It often surprises me that basic ideas like how to prioritise work or how to run a meeting are new to many people. But armed with this knowledge people have a renewed sense of confidence and self-esteem. The energy at the end of the day is a result of them finding their strengths and believing in their ability.  They return to work with a strong desire to try out new ideas and improve their performance. What we do matters.

A safe space
We empower people. Whether it is learning how to use powerpoint, word or excel, we provide a safe space for individuals to learn something new and to make mistakes. Ultimately with the tools we share, we help people to live happier and less stressful lives. What we do matters.

A bright future
Many of our learners are getting access to their first qualification ever. Some people we have been working with over the past year know their jobs will be gone in a few months. They are being given the opportunity to get a formal certificate in an attempt to provide them with a future of employment.  The gentleness and support that our trainers provide gives these people hope for their future. What we do matters.

A blessing
Education is a blessing. I am personally so incredibly grateful to have had such a good education. Overall I am grateful to my family for providing me with a belief that education matters and that it opens the door to a bright and exciting future.

So as I leave my existing company through an open door to what I hope will be a bright and exciting  future, I look back with incredible gratitude. 

Overall, I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of such a great team and to have learnt from each and every one of my colleagues.

It has not all been perfect;  I have had some pretty tough ‘prisoners’ in the training room and I had to deal with some pretty ‘colourful’ people outside the classroom but overall it helps me to remember that what we do matters! Learning changes lives!

My wish is that you feel that what you do matters!
With love and light
Jxxx