Angelina Mawhinney was unsure of her next step until she discovered the Step Up programme at South West College (SWC). Designed to help individuals take the next step towards further education or employment, the programme provided Angelina with the encouragement, experience and confidence she needed to embark upon a new career. Now thriving as a full-time Barista at SWC’s Technology and Skills Centre, she’s proof that the right support can lead to a fresh start and a more fulfilling career.

Angelina joined the Step Up programme with the goal of re-engaging with education and finding more meaningful employment. Initially drawn to catering, she explored a variety of taster sessions, but it was during a Barista workshop that she discovered a new passion. This interest led her to manage the Coffee Dock at the Skills Centre, and with growing confidence and mentor support, she applied for and secured a permanent position, where she now works with confidence, pride and a renewed sense of purpose.

Angelina found Step Up offered her the time, space and one-to-one guidance to explore new opportunities, build her self-belief, and ultimately step into a role aligned with her interests and strengths.

Reflecting on her journey, Angelina said:
“I really enjoyed the Step Up course. The atmosphere was lovely and helped ease my nerves. The mentors were so supportive and encouraging and they helped me discover a career I enjoy and secure a job I’m excited about.

“The course was excellent, I got to explore different career options, gain qualifications, and benefit from one-to-one mentoring, work placements and careers advice. It really gave me clarity on what I wanted to do. There were always new classes to try throughout the year, which helped me figure out what direction to take.”

Now, Angelina is encouraging others to take that first step:
“For anyone in a similar position, I’d say go for it. There are great opportunities, great mentors, and it’s been a really positive experience.”

Emmet Murphy, Step Up mentor, added:
“Angelina is a fantastic example of how the right support at the right time can help someone realise their potential. The Step Up programme, supported by the Northern Ireland Office and the Department for the Economy, is dedicated to helping individuals like Angelina unlock their abilities and take meaningful steps towards employment or further education. We’re incredibly proud of her journey and delighted to see her thriving in a role she loves. We encourage anyone who is unsure about their next step to attend one of our summer taster sessions and discover what’s possible.”

For those aged 16 and over who are not currently in education, employment or training and want to find out more, South West College will be running a series of taster sessions across its Omagh, Dungannon and Enniskillen campuses throughout July and August. These sessions offer a valuable opportunity to explore new possibilities and take the next step towards further learning or employment.

To find the pathway that’s right for you, email stepup@swc.ac.uk and start your journey today.

Step Up

The Step Up Programme offers anyone aged 16+ a choice of 4 pathways, designed to meet various employment and training needs. Help is available with Mentoring, Childcare & Travel costs.