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I ddarllen yr erthygl hon yn Gymraeg, cliciwch yma. Two women at very different stages of their lives have shared how support from Careers Wales and Working Wales helped them find clarity, confidence, and direction. From a student facing daunting subject choices to an experienced professional ready for change, their stories show how tailored guidance can open doors at any stage of life. Careers Wales and Working Wales help people of all ages across Wales build brighter futures and navigate their next steps through impartial careers information, advice, guidance, and employability support. 'I wasn’t alone anymore' When Isabelle Haines was in Year 10, she felt overwhelmed by the idea of choosing A levels and deciding what to do after her GCSEs. Sixth form felt daunting, and she wasn’t sure where to turn. That’s when she met Nick Sparrow, her school’s careers adviser. Through one-to-one sessions, Nick helped Isabelle explore her options and feel more secure about the future. Isabelle explained: “I had no idea what I should do after school. I felt so alone. But Nick made me realise I wasn’t alone and that there were so many more options. “He slowly started introducing the idea of sixth form to me. He made it all seem very easy and gentle.” With Nick’s support, Isabelle chose to study psychology, biology, history, and religious education - subjects that reflect her interests and ambitions. She now hopes to study psychology at university. “Nick helped me decide what’s the best place for me, what grades I needed, and what I should do with my future. “I feel a lot better about it now because I have support and I know where I can go.” 'I feel like I can do anything now' After 16 years in the same role, Angela Annan, 56, from Cardiff, felt unhappy at work and was struggling with her confidence. She made an appointment with Linda Thomas, a Working Wales careers adviser based in Cardiff, to explore various career options and identify the transferable skills she could bring to a new role. When Linda sent Angela a job listing for a role she thought might suit her, Angela decided to apply. Angela said: “Linda helped me with the application form. She was so encouraging, and we have done everything together step by step. She was absolutely amazing. I couldn’t have done it without her.” With Linda’s support, Angela carried out a mock interview to help calm her nerves. Shortly after, she was offered the position of an independent travel trainer, which she took on in March 2025. Now, Angela works with young adults with additional learning needs, helping them build independence by learning to travel to school or college using public transport. She said: “It’s fantastic - I’m very happy. It’s very rewarding when you see the difference you’re making, and I feel like I can do anything now. “My biggest advice? Don’t hold back if you’re feeling unhappy with where you are - only you can change things. It’s a big leap, but it’s so worth it. “And if you’re looking for support, go to Working Wales. They have some amazing staff, and I couldn’t have done it without them. If I can do it, you can do it too.” Find out more For careers information, advice, and guidance, visit the Careers Wales and Working Wales websites, and explore the latest Careers Wales annual report.
