City Gateway brings hope to communities in the most deprived areas of London by helping disadvantaged young people to get into the job market through an Apprenticeship. City Gateway addresses the needs of excluded individuals by building trust, skills, confidence, aspirations and qualifications step by step. The DM Thomas Foundation has funded an ‘Employ’ course for twelve such young people that prepares them for the world of work. Last year, 76% of its apprentices secured a permanent job, 59% with the same company.
Meera’s Story:
Meera came to City Gateway having passed very few GCSEs, leaving her with no job out of training and education. Like so many of her friends at 17, she didn’t know what to do after finishing school.
Meera came to City Gateway and worked incredibly hard, achieving a qualification in Business Administration which meant she was able to secure herself an Apprenticeship at the House of Commons.
Having landed such a prestigious opportunity, Meera has excelled professionally, securing a permanent job at the end of her placement. Motivated by her experience, she supports our team at City Gateway attending external events to inspire other young people about their options after school, especially the opportunities an Apprenticeship offers.
Meera has proven invaluable in this role, giving students at a crossroads in their life to gain insight from a positive female role model, and enable them to consider Apprenticeships as an option for success post-school.
“Meera overcame many obstacles to secure a very prestigious Apprenticeship. The way in which she is now encouraging others to do the same is going to make a difference in many peoples’ lives.” – City Gateway
DM Thomas Foundation most recently awarded City Gateway a grant of £12,000.
