.png)
To celebrate National Careers Week, we asked our resident food ninja (or Food & Development Coordinator) Claire to give us a bit of insight into how she changed industries in the middle of the pandemic and what it's like working for Scran.
How are you involved with Scran Academy?
I started volunteering with Scran in April 2020 during our Community Meals campaign after being furloughed from my job as a chef.
I had never been involved in the 3rd sector before, but absolutely fell in love with it. I became hooked on the feelings of accomplishment and pride that come with a job in this arena, and when it came time to go back to real life, I just wasn’t ready to do so. I had connected with the rest of the Scran family, the other volunteers, and our outstanding young people, and just couldn’t imagine walking away from them to go back to what my life was before. Luckily, I didn’t have to because Scran offered me a full-time position with them, and the rest is history! Jumping into a brand-new career after so long in hospitality was slightly terrifying, but it was the smartest professional choice I’ve ever made.
What has been your proudest achievement with Scran?
Of course, our Covid Meals effort was a hugely proud moment for me. I had never been involved in anything of that magnitude before, and to see how we were able to help so many people was humbling. That’s something I’ll never forget. But more recently, I think I’m most proud of the connections I’ve been able to make with our incredible young people. These youngsters are smart and hilarious, and they surprise us constantly. I love that I get to spend time with them and be a part of their accomplishments. I’m very proud that I get to contribute to their journeys.
Why are you passionate about working for Scran Academy?
I love that Scran just accepts people for who they are. Your background or history isn’t who you are, and it’s amazing that Scran can so easily see past all preconceptions. With staff and young people alike, Scran just want people to shine, and be the best that they can be. It’s refreshing to be in an environment that engages and encourages people to be whoever they want to be.
What’s one thing you’re looking forward to in the coming year?
I can’t wait to get stuck into the events. Catering events is my background and I love it, and I’m excited to be able to share that with our young people.
Tell us one positive thing to come out of past year for you…
This past year gave me the opportunity to change my entire career. I’m now in a job where I feel valued and a part of something exciting, and that’s amazing.