Tarek, 18

Tarek was one of the first recruits on our ‘Sounding Out’ project. When he joined the project he was studying at college but was struggling at home as his father was very ill. At the end of the summer his father sadly died. Tarek then left college in order to earn some money and reconsider his career.

Since then Tarek has gained more skills and experience at Reprezent. He’s been instrumental in work on the Reprezent website and raising awareness about the different campaigns. He has developed excellent journalism and communication skills.

Tarek recently got some paid work with Reprezent as a broadcast assistant and is mentoring for different shows at the station. He says he would never have had this ability without the course:

“Due to my background and experiences in working with older generations I sometimes find it hard to interact with young people even though I am one myself! Throughout the course I have overcome this and become fully comfortable with working with younger age groups. I now feel that I can confidently advise and teach anyone in a constructive and productive way both in my work and personal life.”

Tarek lost confidence when he left college, but the course has helped him regain it. He is hoping to return to further education later this year. The course has also helped him address other areas of his life in a positive way as well:

“I’ve been applying my new skills when I’m at Reprezent by helping other presenters develop themselves and their shows but also in my personal life when helping my younger siblings with things like homework or even advising friends when dealing with problems.”