13 August 2024

18-year-old Clinton came to Yes Manchester looking for a job – little did he know at the time, he would land himself a role with Yes itself.

He says: “I met Yes when I was looking for a job, they helped me to get onto a programme with a local employer for some paid work experience.

“Then an interview came up for the role of an Operations Administrator, so I came up for the interview and realised it would be something good for me.”

Yes works with firms to land people unemployed or in low-paid insecure work the chance to find something meaningful.

Clinton was drawn to the role at Yes because of the people and the pay. “I was so glad when I was told that I was given the role and I’m happy to be here today,” he says.

Yesterday was International Youth Day – a global day to celebrate the world’s youth.

But in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing cost-of-living pressures, young people can feel like they lack opportunities or the hope of finding a meaningful job role.

So, this International Youth Day, Clinton has a clear message: don’t give up.

He says: “My advice to other youths would be to get involved with Yes because we help to improve not just a CV, but we are also person-centred so we give people that guide to find their career path while building themselves with skills, interview skills, communication skills, it’s a person-centred support we provide.”

And his one-word takeaway from the job hunting? Perseverance.

He says: “I’ve learned that perseverance pays off. If you always stay positive, whatever you want, you will achieve that.

“I see it with customers, when they come in searching for jobs, keep coming, applying and making the effort. That perseverance gives them a big smile on their face and it warms our hearts.”