For many people rebuilding their lives in a new country, finding employment is about much more than securing a job. It is about rediscovering confidence, recognising your strengths and believing that new opportunities are possible.
This is the experience of Inna Shulha, who joined HealthProm's Career Success Programme after relocating to the UK from Ukraine.
Originally from Kyiv, Inna arrived in the UK in April 2022 before settling in London in January 2023. With more than ten years of experience in Human Resources, she brought a wealth of professional expertise but, like many internationally trained professionals, faced the challenge of navigating a new job market and rebuilding her career.
As part of the programme, Inna attended the Finding Resources for Career Success workshop, delivered by our Programme Lead Taina. The session encouraged participants to recognise their personal strengths, build resilience and maintain their wellbeing throughout the job search process.
Reflecting on the workshop, Inna said:
"Sometimes, after a long period of job searching, you feel as though you have no strength left to keep going. This session reminded me of my strengths, helped me recognise the resources I already have, and renewed my confidence in myself and my abilities."
She also highlighted the supportive atmosphere that developed during the session:
"I noticed how the participants gradually opened up during the session, sharing their thoughts and experiences in a safe and trusting environment. This brought us closer together, strengthened our sense of community, and reminded us that we are not alone in our challenges."
For Inna, the emotional support was just as valuable as the practical career guidance.
"The session was extremely valuable for my emotional well-being, which I believe is the foundation of a successful job search."
Since taking part in the programme, Inna has continued to engage with HealthProm's employment support and has generously shared her own HR expertise with other participants by offering advice on CVs, cover letters and interview preparation. Her willingness to support others is a wonderful example of how participants become part of a community that learns, grows and succeeds together.
Supporting Refugees into Meaningful Employment
HealthProm's Career Success Programme provides practical and emotional support to help refugees and migrants overcome barriers to employment. Through workshops, one-to-one guidance, peer support and confidence-building activities, participants develop the skills, resilience and networks needed to move towards meaningful work.
Inna's story is a powerful reminder that successful employment support is about more than finding a job. It is about restoring confidence, creating connections and empowering people to recognise their own potential.
We are incredibly grateful to Inna for sharing her experience and for inspiring others who are beginning their own employment journey in the UK.
