From Young Carer to Apprentice: My Journey and the Power of Resilience
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Everyone's journey in life is different, marked by unique challenges and experiences that shape us into who we are today. Mine began as a young carer, navigating the complexities of responsibility and balancing multiple roles even before my teenage years. This experience taught me valuable life lessons, shaping my character, resilience, and work ethic.
Today, as an apprentice, I have found not only a career path that excites me but also a platform to inspire and mentor others. In this blog, I will share my journey from being a young carer to working two jobs during my A-levels, and now thriving as an apprentice. Along the way, I’ll share some tips on resilience and how to remain grounded when times are tough
Starting as a Young Carer
A unique set of challenges growing up as a young carer, my life was different from that of my friends growing up. While they were focused solely on schoolwork and extracurricular activities, I had the added responsibility of caring for my younger sister.
This role demanded maturity, sacrifices, and time management skills that many of my friends didn’t have to learn so early. It was a challenging experience, but it also became a vital part of who I am today. The challenges of being a young carer taught me to prioritise, manage stress, and stay focused under pressure. I learned to find balance and make sacrifices where necessary, often putting others’ needs ahead of my own. While it sometimes felt overwhelming, I recognised early on the importance of resilience – the ability to push through adversity and keep moving forward. This resilience became my greatest asset, something that would guide me through the next phase of my life.
Balancing Two Jobs During A-Levels: The Art of Time Management
When I started my A-levels, I knew it wouldn’t be easy. Balancing the demands of advanced studies was tough enough, but I took on two part-time jobs at McDonalds and Miller and Carter to support my family and myself.
I often found myself juggling school work with long hours at work, trying to keep up with coursework and deadlines while carrying out my job responsibilities. It was quite tiring and stressful, and there were times when I wondered if I could keep up with it all. Yet, those challenging days taught me invaluable lessons. I became incredibly disciplined with my time management of every hour of my day to make sure I could fit everything in.
My early mornings and late nights were prioritised to studying, while weekends were reserved for shifts at work. Though it was tiring, it gave me a sense of purpose and responsibility. I was learning to adapt and manage my time, skills that have now become incredibly useful in my life.
Becoming an Apprentice
The turning point after completing my A-levels, I had a choice to make, continue to my dream university or take that apprenticeship offer that I worked so hard to get . Given my circumstances and not really wanting the idea of student debt looming over me, I chose an apprenticeship. This decision marked a turning point in my life. An apprenticeship offered me the opportunity to learn on the job, gain practical experience, and earn a wage at the same time. It was the perfect balance between education and work, giving me the freedom and financial stability I had long sought. Being an apprentice has opened doors for me that I never imagined possible. It has allowed me to apply my skills in real-world situations, work alongside experienced professionals, and grow both personally and professionally. The hands-on experience is invaluable, and it has given me a clearer sense of direction in my career. Moreover, it has allowed me to take on roles outside of work, such as being a youth panel member and a mentor for the Black Apprentice Network.
Embracing New Opportunities
Giving back and mentoring as I’ve progressed in my career, I’ve been fortunate to engage in activities that allow me to give back to my community. Being a youth panel member with the BD25 City of Culture has enabled me to voice the concerns and aspirations of young people, contributing to initiatives that aim to improve their lives.
This role has given me insight into the issues facing young people today, from education and employment to mental health and social inequality. Mentoring for the Black Apprentice Network has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. It’s a chance to share my experiences, offer guidance, and support others who may be facing similar challenges. Mentoring has shown me the importance of representation and the power of having a role model. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to be resilient and show them that with determination and resilience, they too can achieve their goals.
Tips for Building Resilience Through Tough Times
Throughout my journey, resilience has been the key to my success. Here are three tips that helped me stay strong during the hardest moments:
- Understand That Growth Isn’t a Linear Process
It’s easy to feel discouraged when things don’t go as planned or when progress seems slow. Remember that growth is not a straight path. There will always be setbacks, challenges, and obstacles. Accepting that growth comes in waves can help you stay patient and persistent. Every setback is an opportunity to learn and grow stronger. Don’t measure your progress against others; instead, focus on your journey and the improvements you are making, no matter how small.
- Consistency is Key
When facing tough times, consistency is your best friend. It’s not about making huge strides every day but about showing up and putting in the effort, no matter how small. Consistency builds momentum and resilience. Whether it’s studying for an exam, working on a project, or developing a new skill, make it a habit to invest time regularly. This consistent effort will pay off over time, leading to significant improvements and achievements.
- Seek Support and Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s friends, family, mentors, or support networks, there are people who care about you and want to see you succeed. Don’t isolate yourself during tough times. Reaching out for support can provide new perspectives, emotional relief, and practical solutions. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and share your vision.
Conclusion - The Power of Resilience and the Value of Experience
My journey from being a young carer to an apprentice has been filled with challenges, but it has also been incredibly rewarding. Every stage has taught me something valuable, and each experience has contributed to who I am today. Choosing an apprenticeship has given me the freedom to learn on the job, support myself financially, and give back to my family in meaningful ways.
The resilience I’ve developed has been crucial, allowing me to navigate through difficult times and come out stronger on the other side. For anyone going through similar experiences, remember that your journey is unique, and your challenges are building your strength and character. Embrace the opportunities that come your way, even if they don’t follow the traditional path. Trust in your abilities, remain consistent in your efforts, and never hesitate to seek support. Growth may not be linear, but every step forward brings you closer to your goals.
Malachi Swen
L7 Finance Apprentice | BAN Mentor| BD25 Youth Panel member
You can find out more and connect with Malachi on LinkedIn.