International Day of Friendship – Kickstarter Stories

On 30th of July The International Day of Friendship is celebrated globally and as Artswork we wanted to contribute stories from our Kickstarters about the friendships and connections they’ve made during their 6 month journey. Have a look at the responses we got:

July 30 is International Day of Friendship, what does friendship mean to you?

“Having friends and a support system in my life is so important for me and my mental health, it’s somebody who will accept you for who you are, someone you trust, someone who supports you a bad day.”

Sophie

“Friendship to me means, being there when your friends need you, even though you can’t do anything but to just support them and be there. Having fun together, accepting each others’ differences and celebrating victories together is friendship to me.”

Ilyayda

What are the best connections (professional or non-professional) you’ve made on your kickstart journey and why?

“Staring any new job can be a really daunting and scary thing, and it’s only natural to feel like that, but Ilyayda (another Kickstarter in the Comms team) started with me, and in the last five months we’ve become good friends as we work so closely together. I know that if I’ve had a bad day or feel swamped with work, I can call her and talk to her. We’ve developed both a professional and non-professional relationship in a way which I personally think has been really beneficial for me mentally as I know I’m not alone in this journey. I’m really grateful for my relationships with Abi, Lisa and Anna too.”

Sophie

“Sophie would be my best connection I’ve made in these 6 months. We’ve had some ups and downs together but we were always there and helping out each other. Whether it was formal or informal, it is a connection I will cherish. My job coach Lucy Marder would be another one. She helped me overcome the fear of public speaking and I really thank her for giving me the courage to take the first step. Anna and Jane, our leaders in the Kickstart programme was always there as a back bone to all of us and it helped me to take on challenges more easily. Lastly but not least, from the Comms team, Abi and Lisa. They never left a question I’ve asked unanswered and helped with anything that I needed.”

Ilyayda

Can you describe your Kickstart experience in one sentence for us?

“My time working with Artwork has been incredible, I feel privileged as well as learn so many invaluable publicity skills, made connections and became more confident in the workplace.”

Sophie

“Everyday was a different adventure and I had an amazing team to support me along the way while taking on new challenges and getting out of my comfort zone to learn useful transferable skills.”

Ilyayda

Can you tell us the top three skills you’ve learned or improved during your placement?

“I have become more trustworthy and dependable – willing to take on more responsibility. Time management and organisation – Ability to multi-task and meet deadlines and self-motivation – rising to a challenge.”

Sophie

“Improved my writing skills (writing blogs, newsletter, social media posts etc.). Built up consistency as in, the work I did and attendance. Lastly I’ve learned how to work in a team efficiently – learned how to distribute tasks, give, and receive feedback!”

Ilyayda

Have you conquered any fears in your Kickstart position?

“Yes. Every day is different and with that comes new challenges and fears. It’s all part of the process; learning and growing to become to the best version of myself.”

Sophie

“Yes, specifically I conquered my fear of public speaking and giving presentations. With the help of my job coach Lucy Marder and my fellow Kickstarter Sophie, I’ve built up the courage to speak in front of at least 20 to 25 people!”

Ilyayda

How do you think you’ve grown as a person since becoming a Kickstarter and from the connections you’ve made so far?

“I’m not sure I could even explain how much I’ve grown and changed since March. I’m a completely new person in every way possible in the best way. Whilst being employed at Artswork I’ve had to face some scary things in my personal life and the support in my growth as an individual as well as the professional world from connections and relationships I’ve formed at work has been tremendous.”

Sophie

“I’ve became a better version of myself and vastly improved my work ethic in these 6 months. It was really scary at first to be thrown in a new team and a new work environment but, with the help of my fellow Kickstarter Sophie, I’ve learned to overcome these barriers and took a step out of my comfort zone. Lisa and Abi were a huge supporter along every step I’ve made and I really appreciate everyone’s help. I’m privileged to have these lasting connections in my work and personal life.”

Ilyayda

What is one of the best memories you’ve had in your work placement?

“I’d definitely have to say leading a social campaign in May and the away day!”

Sophie

“Joining the University of Portsmouth event and doing event photography and meeting up with my fellow Kick-starters and spending the day together on away day!”

Ilyayda

Tell us one message from you for future apprenticeships & Kick-Starters; what would you tell them?

“Throw yourself in! Take advantage of every opportunity offered to you and try make the most of this experience, six months goes surprisingly fast.”

Sophie

“Know that every new job comes with unique challenges. You are not alone in this journey and there will be a supportive team alongside you! Don’t be afraid to ask questions and always remember that you have the potential inside you to overcome anything that comes your way!”

Ilyayda

Featured Image Credit: Kristianne Drake

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