After spending years devoted to raising her family, Fouzia Begum, now living in Birmingham, had little time to focus on her own personal development.
With no previous work experience and limited English language skills, 39-year-old Fouzia had been teaching herself to read and write with the help of her sons when she joined the Adult Skills Fund Birmingham in March 2025.
Filled with uncertainty, for Fouzia stepping into a classroom full of people she didn’t know was a daunting prospect. Her initial days were marked by shyness and hesitation. She kept to herself and was unsure of how to communicate and anxious about leaving her family behind to pursue something for herself.
With gentle support from her Tutor, Samantha Walsh, Fouzia would practise her writing and note-taking each session and was encouraged to ask questions. Slowly Fouzia began to relax, engaging with her peers.
Fouzia was enrolled in a hospitality course which blended practical training with essential knowledge. From barista skills to housekeeping and health and safety, Fouzia embraced every opportunity to learn, and with each week, her confidence grew.
Reflecting on Fouzia’s growth, Samantha said: “Fouzia was the once-quiet learner who became a vibrant presence in the classroom, laughing and chatting with other students. She even started volunteering for tasks that she would have once shied away from. Her communication skills flourished, and she began to speak with clarity, confidence and pride. I feel proud of her transformation.”
The programme, along with the one-to-one support provided by Samantha gave Fouzia the self-belief she needed to apply for jobs whilst still studying. In June 2025, she secured a new position as a Support Assistant at a local school for students with additional needs.
Now thriving in her new role, Fouzia explained: “I feel very proud of myself and how far I’ve come. When I first joined I was a nervous mother unsure about my future. I felt scared to join but knew I had to do something for myself. I never imagined I could feel this confidence. The support from my tutor and the programme has changed everything for me. Thank you.”
