How I Got Here - 'I started by volunteering'
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Kai Wooder, education and outreach manager, Wirral Brook
- How did you get into youth work?
I'd gone through school with not really very much to show for it but then I got involved with personal development charity Weston Spirit and it really opened my eyes. I started volunteering and I ended up being supported through the Rank Foundation Gap scheme, which enabled me to become a full-time volunteer for a year.
- Did you study for any qualifications?
Yes, I started doing a distance learning course at YMCA George Williams College. Wherever I've been I've continued studying, first a diploma, then a degree and later supervision courses. The college's philosophy about personal development and informal education has really steered my work. My relationship with the college has been very important.
- What came next?
I set up a social enterprise - Educate YP - that worked with young people on self-esteem, motivation and personal development. I've always enjoyed the challenge of work that focuses on personal development through structured group work.
- How did you know it was time to move on?
I learned so much - there are many happy memories - but we encourage young people to explore their dreams and ambitions and it's important we are prepared to do the same. So I moved to the Wirral branch of sexual health charity Brook to manage its education programme. It was really open to me bringing in a personal development approach to sexual health, rather than just information giving.
- What you are most proud of?
We've developed a programme "All different, all beautiful" that helps young people to reflect on relationships. It focuses on confidence and self-esteem because that is just as important as knowing how to use a condom. It's great to have young people say things like "I know myself better" or "I realised I didn't have to stay in that relationship".
- And in the future?
I haven't got a clue. But I am excited because I feel anything is possible. Being scared is not a reason to say no, so I try to say yes to opportunities and keep myself moving forward.
