Hewan was recommended to look into the the Women in Construction Kensington & Chelsea Employment Programme after facing career uncertainty and in her words feeling ‘unsure which direction to take’. 

Initially hesitant about the five-week course, Hewan contacted WiC Project Manager, Aretha Kelly, who supported and encouraged her to join the programme and find out more about Construction and what it could offer her.

During the programme, which was run in partnership with The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea and Kensington & Chelsea Foundation, Hewan had the pleasure of meeting fellow remarkable women who were really supportive of each other. They quickly bonded and created a group known as ‘WIC Rockstars’! Together, they exchanged information, offered encouragement, and provided unwavering support for each other – it was incredible to watch!

Hewan started the programme with one-to-one coaching from the WiC and SmartWorks Teams. As part of this she received an interview outfit (with accessories!), had a one-to-one coaching session, and practiced interview techniques. This really helped boost Hewan’s confidence, something which she was incredibly grateful for.

The programme was run in collaboration with Ardmore, Bouygues, Durkan, Mitie, Lancaster West Neighbourhood Team, Thames Water, United Living and Walter Lilly and supported by The Skills Centre who provided Hewan Level 1 Health & Safety and CSCS training. In addition, they also provided training in carpentry and hand tools.

Following this, Hewan went on to complete a two week on-site work experience placement with Bouygues UK. A week was spent with the Bouygues team and the second week was spent with of their subcontractors, LJJ Mechanical & Electrical Contractors. Hewan quickly fitted into the teams on site and was invited to Bouygues Head Office to meet their Central Document Control team. 

WiC spoke to Suzi Mattos – Social Value Advisor, Bouygues following the placement who told us; ‘It’s been amazing working and supporting WIC for these 5 years, we met amazing ladies through those years and learned so much with them as well. Hewan is one of them for sure, she came to her work experience with open heart, willing to learn and to grow. She is genuinely looking for an opportunity for a career change and it was my pleasure to be able to provide together with my team and our subcontractor’s team this opportunity to Hewan’.

Following the placement, Hewan was offered a Document Control Apprenticeship with LJJ and we are delighted that in September she was offered a Resident Liaison Officer (RLO) role with Guildmore!

Aretha spoke to Hewan about her experiences on the programme; ‘Thank you Women Into Construction from the bottom of my heart for equipping me with the necessary skills and knowledge to embark on this exciting journey. I am eager to continue learning and growing, and I will always be grateful for this life-changing opportunity. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to participate in the course. It has had a profound impact on both my personal and professional life.’

Congratulations Hewan, we are so proud of you!