"I only started a month ago, and now I finally know where I want to go."
Roxana (41) from Beersel chooses a new start in care and Dutch
Roxana has lived in Beersel for fourteen years and has always worked. She started as a cleaner and later worked in shops and other jobs. She gained experience in several sectors and even completed a six month internship at a justice of the peace court, something she is still proud of today.
“I have always worked and I am not someone who likes to sit still,” she says. “Even since I became unemployed, I keep looking for new opportunities. An internship, a course, something that helps me grow.”
Because of health problems, Roxana had to choose a new direction.
“That was difficult, because I like being active,” she explains. “But I did not want to give up. I wanted to find a profession that fits my health and where I can continue to grow.”
In Halle she followed NT2 (Dutch as a second language) at Crescendo CVO. That is where she first heard about VOSPA, a programme where participants learn Dutch while building basic skills for the care sector.
“I loved that I could start even in the second semester. At first I thought that would not be possible.”
Roxana has now started the programme and is learning not only the language but also the context of the care sector.
- visits to a residential care home
- visit to a childcare centre
- introduction to tasks in different care professions such as care assistant, nurse or educator.
“This helps me discover what suits me best. I love children, but I also enjoy working with older people. I want to improve my Dutch level to 2.4 and then start a training programme in care.”
What touches her most are the teachers.
“They are very committed. They explain everything calmly, they help me find internships and they encourage me. I feel that they believe in me.”
To others who are still hesitating, Roxana has a clear message.
“If you enjoy working with children or older people and you want to work with your heart, this is the perfect direction. You can even start in the middle of the year, just like I did.”