Opinion: Why I'm on a mission to help young Rotherham jobseekers find their way into work

Born and raised in Rotherham, I have always had a love for sport and theatre, playing rugby for Dinnington RUFC and acting in multiple companies around the Rotherham area, both of which have given me an ability to not only bring people together for a shared cause, but to celebrate individuality and appreciate that no two people are the exact same.

I now find myself at Sheffield Hallam University, which allows me to keep my finger on the pulse of what is going on in the local area, and the issues which I see surrounding it.

As I progressed through secondary school, I was, like many students, unsure about what I wanted to do in life, and always felt there was limited information available about what I needed to do to be able to take that next step and find the right pathway for myself.

My aim is to debunk the myths, ask the burning questions and open the door to careers which interest you, but you just didn’t know how to get into, or didn’t realise were on your doorstep.

I will speak to a range of employers and employees in the Rotherham area and find the highs and lows of what their jobs entail, and what they look for in apprentices, and young people entering their line of work.

In the Rotherham Advertiser, you will see over the coming weeks a series of dedicated segments created specifically to guide, inform, and inspire the next generation of professionals throughout our community.

Navigating the modern job market can feel incredibly daunting, but this initiative aims to demystify the entire process from start to finish. This series will highlight local apprenticeship programs, vocational training opportunities, and entry-level pathways that often go unnoticed or underutilised.

By bridging the gap between local talent and regional businesses, we hope to empower young people to make informed decisions about their futures with confidence and clarity.

Whether you are currently completing your studies, considering a major career pivot, or searching for your very first professional opportunity, this initiative is designed to open doors, spark new interests, and provide transparent insights into the vast array of rewarding careers available right here on your doorstep.

Join us as we explore local success stories, interview industry leaders, and equip you with the practical tools needed to build a fulfilling life and career within the Rotherham area and beyond.

*If you’re a business that could provide some expertise to share with young jobseekers or prospective apprentices in Rotherham, please get in touch by emailing: [email protected]