Meaningful employment can be truly life changing, especially when someone is given the chance to rebuild, grow, and be seen for who they are today. Through our Test and Tag Social Enterprise, we support women impacted by the criminal legal system to gain skills, confidence, and genuine pathways into work.
Nyomi’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, determination, and what can happen when supportive employment opportunities meet the right moment.
Finding Focus During a Time of Change
Before joining the Test and Tag Social Enterprise, Nyomi was in rehab and focused on getting her life back on track.
“I was really working on myself and thinking carefully about my future,” she explains.
It was a time of reflection, healing, and making important decisions about the life she wanted to build. After completing rehab, Nyomi joined the SWP program, which became a vital step toward meaningful employment and rebuilding stability.
Facing Closed Doors
Despite her commitment and readiness to work, finding employment was extremely challenging.
“I applied for so many jobs and went to so many interviews,” Nyomi says. “I kept hearing, ‘Unfortunately, you were not successful,’ over and over again.”
Because of her record, employers often struggled to see beyond her past.
“It felt like they could not see who I was now,” she shares. “Even though I was motivated and ready for change, it was really discouraging.”
The repeated rejection made it difficult to stay hopeful, despite her strong desire to move forward.
Rebuilding Confidence and Belief
Joining the program marked a significant turning point for Nyomi.
“The program helped me understand that just because one opportunity does not work out, it does not mean there are no opportunities at all,” she says. “It also helped me realise that my past does not define who I am.”
Practical support with resumes and interview preparation helped Nyomi feel more confident and capable. “I felt more prepared to talk about myself and my skills,” she explains. “It helped me believe in myself again.”
Discovering Test and Tag
Nyomi first heard about the Test and Tag Social Enterprise while attending workshops.
“When it was mentioned, it just felt like the right opportunity at the right time,” she says. “It gave me hope.”
For the first time, Nyomi felt there was a pathway that truly understood her situation and offered support without judgment.
“It felt different,” she reflects. “It felt like people actually wanted to help me succeed.”
A Safe Place to Take the Next Step
From her very first conversation with the team, Nyomi felt welcomed and respected.
“I felt supported straight away,” she says. “I knew I needed guidance and people who believed I could do this.”
Through SWP and the Test and Tag Social Enterprise, Nyomi found an environment where she felt supported rather than judged.
“That made all the difference,” she explains. “It made me want to take that next step.”
The Impact of Meaningful Employment
Gaining employment through the Test and Tag Social Enterprise has had a profound impact on Nyomi’s life.
“Having a job has given me structure and something positive to look forward to every day,” she says. “It has boosted my confidence and given me a sense of purpose.”
Work has also given her pride in what she is achieving.
“For the first time in a long time,” Nyomi shares, “I feel like I am moving forward in a meaningful way.”
Looking Ahead with Hope
Now that she is employed, Nyomi’s goals are focused on stability and growth.
“My main goal is to stay employed and keep building a stable life,” she says. She is also hopeful that having stable employment will support positive outcomes with court.
Looking ahead, Nyomi would love to grow with Success Works. “I want to keep learning, keep developing, and keep moving forward,” she says.
A Message of Hope
Reflecting on her journey, Nyomi acknowledges how difficult it has been.
“It has been a rough journey,” she says, “but there is light at the end of it.”
Today, she feels more hopeful and empowered about her future. Being surrounded by other women on similar journeys has been especially meaningful.
“It reminds me that I am not alone,” Nyomi says. “Change really is possible when you are given the right support and opportunities.”
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