29 August 2026 | All News
Mia, 20, had been out of work and looking for an opportunity for more than a year when she was referred to VIY through The Economic Inactivity Trailblazer Paid Work Placement Programme.
As a young person with limited experience, Mia found it difficult to secure work and the constant setbacks began to knock her confidence, so she completed employability training and work experience to build her skills and strengthen her CV.
In February 2026, Mia interviewed with VIY for a 6 month placement through the Trailblazer programme and was delighted to be offered the job – her first full-time role and a huge breakthrough after such a long time searching for work.
During her first week, Mia took part in a hands-on VIY project at Denton St Lawrence Cricket Club, experiencing VIY from a learner’s perspective and gaining an insight into the impact of our work.
Over the six months, Mia gained experience across several areas of VIY. She supported Youth Engagement Coordinator (YEC) activities, helping with learner engagement and progression, while also supporting the Communications team and helping with general project admin.
Most importantly, Mia’s confidence grew. “At the beginning, I was nervous about speaking to new people and working in a professional environment, but over time I became much more comfortable and confident in my abilities.”
Her family noticed the difference too, telling Mia how much she had grown during her time with VIY.
Mia has now joined our North West team as a part-time Junior Admin Officer, continuing to support administration, communications and YEC activities.
What started as a six-month placement has become an ongoing opportunity for Mia to build her skills, confidence and career.
Mia’s story is one example of how VIY is helping deliver some of the UK’s biggest national youth employment initiatives, including the UK Government’s Youth Guarantee Trailblazer (more on this wok here) and Economic Inactivity Trailblazer programmes, supporting young people to build skills, confidence and pathways into employment.
