Funda Gains Confidence and New Skills Through the SEE Program.
Funda has transformed her English communication skills and built the confidence to re‑enter the workforce after completing the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program delivered by Community Plus. After two years in the program, she is now volunteering, planning further study, and preparing to return to bookkeeping work.
A major breakthrough came when Funda felt confident enough to ask about volunteer opportunities to help her become more work ready. She now volunteers at Community Plus, continuing to develop her communication, workplace confidence, and people skills. “Before, I was very shy. Now I can speak to anyone without fear,” she said.
Throughout the program, Funda steadily improved her written English, speaking, and listening. She credits her progress to the supportive learning environment, where teachers and classmates encouraged her to participate, practise, and connect with others.
Funda migrated from North Cyprus to Australia at age 24 and brings over 25 years of bookkeeping experience. Although she had strong numeracy and digital literacy skills, she lacked confidence speaking and writing in English because she had not studied in the language. When she first joined the SEE Program, she described herself as shy, quiet, and hesitant to speak.
Now in her early 50s, Funda is preparing to undertake a bookkeeping course and hopes to return to an office role. Her renewed confidence and clear sense of direction reflect the long‑term impact of the SEE Program in supporting adults to build essential skills for employment.