Staff Stories: From Youth Consultant to Data + Comms Intern.

We’ve been employing young people as core members of our team since day one. These roles have become central to how we work at MAC-UK, it means that young people are integrated into services and we’re able to capture and value their expertise and skills in a meaningful way. Alongside paid employment, we support their professional development and overall wellbeing.

Here is Dimah’s account of how she has found her place at MAC-UK, and her journey from Youth Consultant to Data & Comms Intern… 

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I first started at MAC-UK as a Lived Experience Youth Consultant in December last year. After leaving a difficult and uncomfortable work environment at my previous job at Paperchase, I was honestly a bit nervous about stepping into something new.

But now, looking back, I’m so glad I took that step.

From day one, the MAC-UK team made me feel welcomed, comfortable, and supported. On top of that, I was working alongside another youth consultant I already knew, which helped ease the transition. Everyone explained things clearly and took the time to make sure I understood what was going on — that meant a lot.

Our meetings were actually fun! We always started with a fun check-in prompt, which helped us settle in and connect. As someone with a lot of ideas, I felt genuinely appreciated — the team really listened and took my ideas seriously. That kind of respect and encouragement was new for me in a workplace.

One of the highlights of my role as a youth consultant was my supervision meetings. My supervisor helped me explore my goals around advocacy, reflect on what I want to achieve, and supported me in thinking about the future. These conversations were not only insightful but also enjoyable — especially when held over a delicious drink at Kata Kata café!

Throughout my time in that role, I truly felt valued. I got to work with so many wonderful people, and that experience really changed my view of what working with other people could be.

So when my contract was nearing its end and I was offered a new role as a Data and Comms Intern, I was over the moon! I couldn’t wait to continue working with this amazing team.

My first day in the new role was just as exciting — the environment was relaxed, welcoming, and productive. After what I went through in previous jobs, I honestly thought that maybe the workplace in general just wasn’t for me. But MAC-UK has completely changed that perspective. I now see that it’s not about whether I belong in a workplace — it’s about being in the right workplace.

Already, this team has helped me build so much confidence, both personally and professionally. I’m excited to grow, learn new skills, and keep gaining valuable experience. I am so grateful to be working at MAC-UK

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If you’re interested in learning how to employ young people, or you’d welcome support in strengthening your approach, then check our newly launched training offer here. Or drop us a line to know more about how we can help you put this into practice; info@mac-uk.org