Simona’s Story: From Underemployment to Award-Winning Apprentice
Simona was raised in North London, and after finishing school she was determined to build a successful career in finance – she knew she was capable of doing it. However, early in her journey she struggled to find roles that matched her ambition and potential.
Overcoming Barriers: Turning Ambition into Opportunity
Simona had always been ambitious and supported by her family to pursue her dreams, but as she reflected, “The area I grew up in is not necessarily known for academic success or career progression. There wasn’t necessarily anyone you could look to and aspire to.”
As is too often the case for the young people we work with, she found she was stuck in low-paid jobs. As London’s cost of living rose, she felt worried about the future and how she’d be able to build the life she’d envisioned for herself.
While searching for opportunities, Simona discovered LTSB. “I saw LTSB and their mission to support individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds really resonated with me. I knew this could be the opportunity to break out of my situation.”
Finding her Confidence and Self-Belief
While on our NatWest Banking programme, Simona was pushed outside her comfort zone. She struggled with confidence, especially in public speaking, but during a one-to-one with her Programme Manager, she confided her self-doubt.
For Simona, having someone who genuinely believed in her potential was crucial. “When your parents say, ‘I believe in you,’ sometimes you think, well, it’s your job to say that. But having someone willing to speak on your behalf when you don’t have the ability to, someone who understands the niche struggles people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face – that’s hugely important.”
Breaking into Banking and Winning Awards
Simona was successful in securing a Senior Financial Customer Advisor Apprenticeship and has excelled in her first year. Her impact has extended far beyond her day job, organising Insight Days for LTSB, representing her fellow apprentices with the CEO of NatWest, and speaking at our stakeholder events about her journey. In 2025 she was even nominated for a Multicultural Apprenticeship Award by NatWest.
But when asked what she’s most proud of, she looks beyond the external highlights.
“Doing LTSB changed me as a person. People see the LinkedIn stuff, and obviously it’s all amazing experiences, but I think those are byproducts of the internal change within myself. A year ago, this wouldn’t be me, but I’m so proud of how far I’ve come”.
This charity really does have the opportunity to change people’s lives, and you can be a part of doing that. It’s not a cliche when people say it changed their life – you really do change lives for the better.”
