With a background as a Stage Manager in theatre, Louise built a successful and fulfilling career before having children. As her priorities changed after the birth of her children, she moved into working with young people, creating and delivering a technical theatre programme for youth theatre helping others explore exciting backstage careers.
However, following a period of ill health in 2021, Louise made the difficult decision to step away from work to focus on her wellbeing. During this time, she continued to make a difference by volunteering for charities Breast Cancer Now and CRUK, even co-founding a cancer charity of her own. Despite this, being out of the workplace since 2022 left her feeling uncertain about her next step. She wanted to return to work but in a way that was flexible, meaningful and manageable alongside her health and family life.
Louise joined a course after discovering Successful Mums on Instagram and attending a Find a Job You Love webinar. Feeling inspired by the supportive approach demonstrated there, Louise signed up straight away.
“I was nervous to begin with but from the first session, I was made to feel welcome, supported and I soon realised I was in the right place to begin building myself back up to return to work.”
Louise had goals to rebuild her confidence, develop digital skills and learn strategies to manage anxiety, all key steps towards returning to employment.
From the very beginning, Louise embraced the opportunity. Although initially nervous, she quickly found herself in a welcoming and encouraging environment. Through a combination of group sessions, interactive activities and one-to-one coaching, she began to rebuild her confidence and recognise the value of her skills and experience.
“This training has made me more confident and has given me a greater sense of self-belief.“
Louise
Louise successfully completed both the Wellbeing and Digital Skills courses, gaining practical tools that she could apply immediately. She also continues to invest in her future by progressing onto another Successful Mums course. Alongside developing her technical abilities, she is gaining confidence in job searching, CV writing and interview preparation.
A key part of Louise’s journey has been the sense of community. Working in a group of other women in similar situations helped her feel less alone and more motivated. The supportive network, combined with expert guidance from trainers, enabled her to “face her fears” and take positive steps forward.
“Everyone is welcomed and encouraged through learning to be the best version of themselves.”
Today, Louise is actively applying for roles and approaching the job market with a renewed sense of belief in herself. While she is still exploring the right opportunity and completing her course, she now feels confident that there is a role out there that aligns with her skills, values and need for flexibility.
Reflecting on her experience, Louise describes the biggest change as her confidence and self-belief. Where she once felt unsure of her worth, she now recognises that she has a great deal to offer an employer.
“This training has made me more confident and has given me a greater sense of self-belief. Before the courses, I felt unworthy and inferior to others and didn’t think I had much to offer an employer. Having completed Successful Mums courses and joined the incredible support network, I realise that I have so much to offer an employer and that I can make a positive difference in the workplace.”
From uncertainty to optimism, Louise is now on a positive path continuing to learn, grow and move closer to a fulfilling future.