Education

“In June of 2016, I had the privilege of being selected along with a group of young people, to join the 3rd cohort of the Avasant Digital Youth Employment Initiative (ADYEI). Unemployed and frustrated, I was desperate for a lifeline, and I got it. Over the course of three weeks, we were blessed with as much professional knowledge as we could absorb. Civic and social responsibilities, BPO history and operation styles name only a few of the important issues that were covered. The program was aimed at developing our professionalism and employability, but not only did it surpass that, but also resulted in tremendous personal growth. Everyone left the program a changed individual. For myself, I was hell-bent on making the most of the opportunity and that was recognized from the start. I was taught basic leadership techniques to coach and develop not only those around me, but also myself. Issues that have always seemed abstract, were brought to my eyes and laid bare. By the time I graduated as the top performer, I was not only leagues more patriotic, but also exhibited true leadership qualities, exemplary professionalism and an aura of maturity. Though BPO training was the emphasis, we were adequately prepared to succeed in any line of work. I know not where I would be if I were not a part of ADYEI, however I know what I am now, thus I must credit a huge portion of my development to Avasant Foundation. I have changed for the better, taken a different approach at life and become far more aware. I’ve even identified the same changes in fellow Avasanters as well. Forever indebted to all the stakeholders involved, it is with gratitude and pride that wherever I go, I represent Avasant Foundation.”

“Before taking up the opportunities of Avasant I was at home studying website development and wondering what my next step would be in life. I was of the mindset that the only possible thing that I could ever possible hope to accomplish was tied to website development, but I was searching for something that had longevity and room for growth. Fortunately, this search came to an end when I was introduced to the Avasant Foundation Program by a cousin. Initially I was quite skeptical but then I was strongly encouraged by a friend who did the course and got a good job and his feedback stated that there was also opportunities for growth, so I decided to give it a try and it was one of the best decisions of my life. During the 5 weeks of training, I was transformed into a far better person, which was all made possible with the much appreciated help from our wonderful and helpful trainers who were from Conduent. Mr. Allistair Doughlas made the learning process a very fun experience, Ms. Christina Webley blessed us all with her impartation of valuable knowledge and Ms. Agnus taught and gave us real life encounters about professionalism and last but not the least, Ms. Poyser, my wonderful home room coordinator, who watched over not only me but everyone else like a mother. During the Avasant Foundation’s 5 weeks training, I was literally pushed to my limits. I learned how to be outspoken and took part in teamwork which was challenging for me because by nature I am a quiet person. I learned what it meant to put myself out there for the betterment of not just myself but for the persons with whom I interacted as a group on a daily basis. Those 5 weeks have left a lifelong impression on me and has forever favorably molded my character.

Furthermore, Avasant Foundation’s training is well recognized in the BPO industry in Jamaica. Almost everyone from my cohort got job placements in about 1-3 weeks after finishing the training. Without a doubt, the training helped me in successfully marketing myself and getting a job at Conduent, one of the most recognized call centers in Jamaica. It brings me great joy to mention that to date I am happily employed still utilizing all that I learnt from Avasant Digital Youth Employment Initiative, to pave my way forward in the BPO world.

I believe it is more than fitting to end this by my giving a heartfelt thank you to the Avasant Foundation and Ms. Chitra Rajeshwari – their executive director; who took it upon herself to visit us in person and to routinely monitor our progress in order to ensure that we were placed in jobs that we so eagerly desired. So, on behalf everyone and myself, thank you Avasant Foundation for continuing your wonderful work of inspiring young hearts and changing lives.”