Keziah is a mother of three young children who has shown incredible strength, determination, and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
After working for over seven years as a Customer Adviser in an audiology department, she was made redundant when her company faced financial difficulties.
Suddenly out of work and unsure where to start, Keziah found herself struggling with anxiety.
Having been employed continuously since leaving college, she admitted, “I didn’t know what to do. I had to make my CV again after so many years, it was overwhelming.”
While receiving Universal Credit, Keziah spoke to her work coach at Jobcentre Plus and asked for help in making her CV more attractive to employers. Her work coach then referred her to Angie from the National Careers Service for tailored careers support.
“Angie was so helpful and calm. She really listened to me and understood what I wanted to do. That meant so much because I felt heard.
She sent me links, advice, and ideas I hadn’t even thought of before, and now, I’m preparing for a couple of interviews! I feel hopeful again.”
Rediscovering Passion and Purpose
Keziah had a teaching background overseas, but her qualifications weren’t recognised in the UK.
Determined not to give up, she began exploring other ways to use her skills and passion for working with children and families.
She enrolled on two courses:
• Level 2 Caring for Young People and Safeguarding Children – essential for teaching assistant roles.
• Strive for Civil Service Employment Course – to expand her career options further.
“I realised that working with children doesn’t have to mean being a classroom teacher. There are so many meaningful roles like safeguarding, childminding, or family support that still allow me to make a difference in children’s lives.”
This realisation opened a world of opportunities for Keziah, giving her a new sense of direction and excitement about her future.
Embracing Change and Learning New Skills
Through the support of Angie and her Jobcentre Plus coach, Keziah learned how to update her CV for modern recruitment practices.
She discovered how employers now use AI systems to screen applications and tailored her CV accordingly.
When Angie reviewed my CV, she helped me understand how the job market works today.
Following her advice, I opened a LinkedIn account straight away, made the changes she recommended, and began applying for roles.
Almost immediately, I started getting interviews and job messages, it was amazing!
Keziah has since interviewed with several employers and continues to apply for roles that align with both her family life and her career goals.
She’s determined to find a part-time position that allows her to study, grow, and care for her children.
A Message of Hope and Action
Keziah’s journey is one of resilience, learning, and self-belief.
She reached out for help, connected with multiple organisations including Citizens Advice, Jobcentre Plus, her bank’s debt advice team, and the National Careers Service, and found that support is out there for those who ask.
“People don’t always realise how much help is available.
I was panicking when I lost my job, but once I started asking for help, I found amazing people like Angie and Kim from the Jobcentre Plus who genuinely care.
You don’t even have to meet them face-to-face to feel supported.”
Moved by the support and encouragement she received from Angie, Keziah has been inspired to consider a future as a Job Coach or Wellness Coach, helping others rebuild their confidence and achieve their goals.
“If someone can bring hope to people when they feel lost, that’s incredible. I’d love to help others in the same way one day.
Angie made me feel truly heard and understood, and she gave me exactly the support I needed.
That gave me hope. I don’t know if she realises the impact she’s had.”
Keziah’s Advice to Others
“Reach out. Ask for help. Don’t sit behind closed doors feeling hopeless, there is so much support out there.
The tools are available, but you have to take that step yourself. It’s about self-motivation. Once you make the first move, things start to change.”
Now, at 43, Keziah says she no longer feels overwhelmed. Instead, she feels inspired, confident, and ready to embrace the future and has already been offered a new role!
“It’s opened my eyes to so many new roles. Whether it’s childcare, safeguarding, or family support, if you’re passionate about helping children, there’s always a way. There are so many opportunities, and with the right support, you can rebuild your life.”
A Story of Strength and Renewal
Keziah’s story is a powerful reminder that asking for help, staying proactive, and believing in your potential can transform even the most difficult situations.
With support from the National Careers Service, Jobcentre Plus, and her own determination, she has turned a moment of crisis into a journey of growth and new beginnings.
If you’d like to find out more about National Careers Service and the free support on offer, please call 📞 0800 100 900 or visit 💻nationalcareers.service.gov.uk
