“My placement began in April 23 and came to an end in mid July. However, I continued working with the RAMA team throughout my summer break period.
I want to share my utmost gratitude to all RAMA team members for the amazing work they all do. When I joined the team I didn’t know what to expect as I have a very little experience of working with charitable organisations. I was overwhelmed with nervous feelings. After a day of placement I became ill and was hospitalised. This period of recovery made me rethink more about my own wellbeing and how I balance it with my work and learning. What was more positive about this time though, Maria who is the Operational Lead checked on me regularly despite barely knowing me.
The support and reassurance she showed made me optimistic about resuming placement with confidence.
Although I felt anxious being back, learning new skills, and being in an unfamiliar environment my colleagues and my OSS were supportive.
My lack of confidence didn’t go unnoticed, however, I felt no judgement within the team rather positive regards and heart felt optimism for my development.
I gradually improved my performance and my confidence because of the inclusive culture that the team embodies. Maria’s leadership is so exceptional, I have learned a lot from her and all the team’s individual contributions have uniquely impacted my learning development. I have grown both individually and professionally and it’s because of the safe environment RAMA provided. As Alexander Den Heijer said “When a flower doesn’t bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower.”
My message to the Team; Continue to do what you do best which is restoring lives, you are amazing and may the Lord bless each and everyone of you.”