Jaynika Builds Digital Skills for Work and Life

Posted on by heathercette

Jaynika joined the Grow Digital programme in Leicester, supported by the AKG Community Investment Fund, to improve her digital skills and build her confidence using technology. She had some basic experience but wanted to learn more, especially how digital tools could help her in everyday life and when applying for jobs.

Jaynika said: “I wanted to learn more about digital and AI. I had used things like ChatGPT before, but not deeply. I didn’t really understand how to use it properly.

Before this, I had not used computers properly. I had some basic knowledge, but not in detail. I was looking for work, like supermarket or warehouse jobs, but I knew I needed to improve my skills.

I found Grow through a programme at a people’s centre. One of the ladies told me about it and after that, I joined the session.”

Jaynika took part in a Grow Digital course, where she was introduced to digital tools and AI.

Jaynika said: “The course helped me understand how to use AI and digital tools better. I learned how to make a CV, write cover letters, and understand job descriptions. The sessions were also delivered in a supportive and accessible way.

“Sometimes I don’t understand everything in English, but the tutor, Grow’s Kaneez Fatima helped and explained in Hindi as well. That helped me a lot. Now I understand more about how to use digital tools and if I don’t know something, I can ask and find the answer. It helps me in everyday life as well as for work – I learned how to make a CV for different jobs and how to write cover letters.

Now I feel more confident using digital skills, but I am still learning. I want to keep improving and learn more.”

Jaynika is continuing to look for work and says she now feels better prepared to apply for roles. She found the support from Grow really impactful: “The digital course helped me a lot. It’s not just for jobs, it helps with everything in life, especially what I learned about how to use AI like Chat GPT. It’s also very helpful to be with other women learning at the same time as it feels comfortable.”

Jaynika plans to continue building her digital skills and use what she has learned to support her job search.

“I am more confident now, and I want to keep learning.”

 

Oksana Embraces AI to Build a New Career

Posted on by heathercette

Oksana attended a recent GRoW event on ChatGPT where we spoke to her about how she had been using the revolutionary AI program to help support her on her journey to employment. Since moving to the UK from Ukraine nearly three years ago, Oksana has worked hard to improve her English and adapt her skills to the job market. By utilising ChatGPT to help her in her job search, Oksana has been able to explore new ways of tailoring her applications and building her confidence.

Oksana said “When I came to the UK, I didn’t know where to start. Back in Ukraine, I worked as a German teacher, but finding work here felt a bit overwhelming. Then, I discovered GRoW and started attending their workshops. They introduced me to tools like ChatGPT, which has made a big difference in how I approach job applications.

Before ChatGPT, writing a CV and cover letters was a long and difficult process. Now, I can input my skills and experience, and the program helps me tailor my applications for specific jobs. For example, when applying for teaching assistant or nursery roles, I highlight my experience working with children. ChatGPT makes it so much easier to adjust my CV and cover letters to match the requirements of each job.

I’ve also used ChatGPT to help with creative projects. My husband is a photographer and videographer, and he asks me to write posts for his work. I use ChatGPT to create meaningful captions and messages for his photos and videos, which saves me a lot of time.

One of the most helpful things I’ve learned is how to use ChatGPT to quickly adapt cover letters for different roles. After working with Karen from GRoW, I realised the importance of tailoring applications to each job. Karen spent time reviewing my CV, and with ChatGPT’s help, I made it much stronger. Now, I feel more confident when I send it out.

I’ve been applying for jobs almost daily. Whenever I find a role that interests me, I use ChatGPT to create a personalised application. It saves me hours of work and ensures my applications stand out. I’ve already applied for several teaching assistant roles and feel like I’m getting closer to finding the right opportunity.

Since joining GRoW, I’ve learned so much, not just about job applications but also about myself. The support from the community and the use of AI tools have helped me feel more capable and hopeful about my future. I’m excited to continue this journey and see what opportunities come next.”