Shital joined the Grow Digital programme in Leicester (funded by the AKG Community Interest Fund) after being encouraged by the Peepul Centre to take part. Already working in retail, she wanted to build on her existing knowledge and stay up to date with new digital tools, particularly AI, to support her future career goals.
Shital said “I did my bachelor’s degree in computer engineering in India, so I already had a good knowledge of computers nut here in the UK, I wanted to understand how things work and learn what is new. I go to the Peepul Centre and they encouraged me to join the course as they said it would help me learn more digital skills.”
Even though Shital already had a background in computing, she wanted to refresh her skills and keep up with changes.
“Every day there is something new coming. I wanted to stay updated and understand the new systems.”
Before joining the course, Shital had not used AI tools but through the Grow Digital sessions, she began to understand how AI can be used in everyday life.
“Nowadays, in everything, you need AI. It helps with writing, correcting sentences and many things.”
She also learned practical skills that she can use going forward such as writing and improving CVs, understanding job descriptions, improving writing skills and protecting personal data online. There are so many scams now, so learning how to protect your data was also very useful” said Shital.
The course was delivered in a way that made it accessible to everyone, regardless of their starting point.
“There were lots of women in the class. Some didn’t know how to use AI at all, and some were not very confident with mobile phones. Kaneez, the tutor, supported learners by explaining things in different languages when needed. She explained in different languages, like Hindi, so everyone could understand. That was very helpful.”
For Shital, the course was about refreshing her knowledge and building confidence with new tools.
“This course helped me learn something new and improve my skills. I now feel more confident using digital tools in everyday life. If I don’t know something, I can use AI to help me.”
Shital is currently working in retail but is thinking about her future. “This is my job for now, but I am interested in working in something computer-based in the future. What I have learned on this course will really help me. It has given me useful skills for both work and everyday life.”
For Shital, Grow Digital has been an opportunity to refresh her existing skills, learn about AI, and prepare for future career opportunities. By building her confidence and keeping her knowledge up to date, she is taking steps towards moving into a more technology-focused role.