Building a Brighter Future from Scratch

Growing up, Michaela faced significant financial struggles in a single-parent household. Her mother, despite health challenges, instilled in her a profound belief: that she could achieve anything she set her mind to and forge a better life for herself. This powerful message became her guiding light.

However, at the tender age of 15, tragedy struck with the sudden passing of her mother. This devastating loss, compounded by challenging family dynamics and the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, plunged Michaela into a battle with mental health issues.

Her attendance at school suffered, and she eventually dropped out of sixth form just before her A-levels, feeling overwhelmed by depression and anxiety.

“My whole world had changed,” she recalls. “Then, just a few months later, came COVID-19, and I was stuck at home with my dad, who I really did not get along with, and it emphasised the gap left by my mum’s passing.”

After nearly a year out of education or employment, Michaela had a profound realisation: “Enough was enough – my mum would be rolling in her grave if she knew I had given up on my future.”

This pivotal moment marked a turning point, igniting her resolve to honour her mother’s belief and reclaim control of her life.

She secured a business administration apprenticeship at a charity in Canary Wharf, dedicated to helping disadvantaged young people. It was there, supporting the Data & Finance departments that her natural aptitude for numbers blossomed.

“I had always loved maths, and the methodical nature of finance was incredibly appealing,” she shares. She excelled, completing her apprenticeship with Distinction and earning a promotion to Accounts Assistant.

This achievement allowed her to gain independence, moving into her own place and finally feeling free and in control of her life again.

The Training Link Advantage: Clear Learning, Rapid Progress

Michaela’s ascent continued when she was head-hunted by her boyfriend’s employer, who offered to fund her AAT Level 2 training. This was an opportunity she couldn’t refuse.

Her experience with Training Link proved to be a catalyst for her continued success. She highlights the exceptional clarity of the learning materials, packed with examples and practice questions that solidified her understanding. A particular favourite feature was the consistent context provided, explaining not just what but why accounting processes are done a certain way.

“Having an online copy of all the materials was a lifesaver,” she notes. “As you will be aware, there can be quiet periods as an accounts assistant, and I was lucky enough to have time to get on with my studies during work! – all thanks to the accessibility of the materials.”

She also praises the invaluable support from her tutor, Ben Campbell:

“My tutor, Ben Campbell, was such a great help. Super-speedy replies to all my questions and always a quick turnaround for marked tasks.”

This level of accessible and responsive support clearly played a crucial role in her ability to progress so effectively.

A Future Unwritten, But Full of Promise

Thanks to her dedication and the support from Training Link, Michaela is now thriving in her current role, and her employer has generously offered to fund her AAT Level 3 qualification. When asked which training provider she wanted to use, her answer was unequivocal: “TRAINING LINK!!! 🙌”

Looking ahead, Michaela is still exploring which specific area of accounting she’ll specialise in, but she’s confident that Training Link’s “lovely staff” will guide her as she continues her studies. One thing is absolutely certain: she is living out her mother’s vision.

“One thing is for certain,” she declares, “I am giving myself a better life, accomplishing whatever I decide to put my mind to, as my mum had always wanted! ❤”

Michaela’s story is a powerful reminder that with determination, resilience, and the right support, we can not only navigate life’s toughest storms but also emerge stronger, building the bright future we deserve.

Her journey is truly an inspiring example of how dedication, even in the face of profound loss, can lead to remarkable success.