Darunee's AGM Speech 2010

I came to England from Thailand in 2006. The job I did in Thailand was Business Administration.

My son joined me from Thailand last September. I was working in a supermarket but I gave up my job to settle him into school as he did not speak any English.

When I came to see my adviser Sam at the drop-in in March I wanted help to get back to work and help with my CV. I also wanted to improve my written and spoken English and wanted advice about working for myself as was thinking about setting up a Thai food catering business. I was finding it difficult to get work because I am still learning English and employers don't always realise how much I can do, because of this.

My adviser told my about a Festival of Learning Course called Fresh is Best - this was for women who wanted to start a catering business.

I joined the A4e Inspire project and my adviser helped me with my CV, and booked me on the Jobsearch Skills Course with Joan Bailey. She also told me about Best Training, where I could do a City and Guilds English course. I now have City and Guilds Level 1 in Literacy and starting Level 2.

Attending courses helps me to practice speaking my English, meet new friends.

I still have to support my son with his school work, as he moves to a new school, so I now want to work from home. I hope to set up my Thai food business soon and have my own website to promote my products to sell online.

I would like to thank you everyone at Women and Work. Thank you for all help and support, the warm welcome, smiling peoples. Thank you.
Darunee