A graduate of Barking and Dagenham Council’s apprenticeship scheme has been shortlisted for a national award.
Cintia Jankoczi, who worked as a level-3 business administrator in the Job Shop Construction Team, has made the final of the 2021 Public Services People Managers Association (PPMA) Apprentice of the Year award.
The awards identify and showcase the promising and emerging talent of people working in the public sector.
Cintia scooped her nomination after working closely with colleagues in her team to help over 1,300 people access construction-related employment support and training, including encouraging those from underrepresented groups to enter the industry, such as those with disabilities or women.
She also played a crucial role in helping people who didn’t have online facilities continue to access training and employment opportunities during the pandemic.
Since completing her apprenticeship, Cintia has secured a role as a project support officer in the council’s Apprenticeship and Work Experience team.
Councillor Sade Bright, Cabinet Member for Employment, Skills and Aspiration, said: “Cintia has been fantastic in her time here and her work exemplifies the council’s vision of making sure no one is left behind.
“Cintia’s nomination is just deserved, and we wish her all the best. Her story shows that you can succeed even when you think you can’t, you just need encouragement and a helping hand. If anyone needs help to make the most of employment opportunities, get in touch with our free, professional Job Shop brokers. They really can change your life.”
Prior to her apprenticeship, Cintia worked in various roles before taking a break to look after her son. It was then that the stay-at-home mum struggled to find work to fit around her life.
Cintia said: “It had a negative effect on my self-confidence, however, I refused to give up and I decided to use the opportunity to make a career change.”
After volunteering at a local children’s centre, the Sue Bramley Children’s Centre, Cintia completed a business administration course at the Adult College and carried out work placements.
She then registered with the Job Shop after becoming a stay-at-home mum where she received advice to volunteer in order to change her career, and once she completed her business admin course, a specialist job broker helped her build her confidence before helping her secure an apprenticeship.
Cintia praised the support she received in making a difference to her life. She added: “This is why I chose to work in public sector because I hope that through my work, I can contribute to someone else`s happiness by improving the quality of life and being the helping hand they need to reach their full potentials.”
Cintia is up against six other finalists in the PPMA Apprentice of the Year award. All winners will be announced at the virtual PPMA Annual Conference on 14 and 15 September 2021.
Residents can find out more about apprenticeship opportunities and more about the council’s Job Shop services at lbbd.gov.uk/help-finding-work.