Celebrating National Employability Day with Purpose and Pride

By Adele Hughes

As we mark National Employability Day, I’m reminded of the immense value that employment brings, not just to individuals, but to families, communities, and society at large. Employment is more than a means to earn a living; it’s a vital part of how we define our identity, build confidence, and shape our aspirations.

In my role as Operations Manager for the Jobs Growth Wales+ (JGW+) Programme, I have the privilege of witnessing first-hand how our dedicated team supports individuals in taking meaningful steps toward sustainable employment. Our focus on developing core employability skills, communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience, is at the heart of everything we do. We’re not just preparing people for today’s job market; we’re equipping them for a lifetime of opportunity and growth.

One of the most powerful elements of our programme is the support we receive from our network of committed employer partners. These employers don’t just offer placements, they provide real-world experience, mentorship, and, in many cases, direct employment opportunities that truly transform lives. Their belief in our learners and willingness to invest in developing new talent is a cornerstone of our success. It demonstrates the power of collaboration between education, support services, and industry to create lasting impact.

This year, that impact is clearer than ever. We are proud to report that so far 41% of our JGW+ learners have progressed into employment during this contract year, a testament to the hard work of our learners, the dedication of our teams, and the unwavering support of our employer network.

Through structured support, personalised pathways, and strong employer collaboration, we continue to see barriers broken, confidence restored, and futures reimagined.

National Employability Day is a celebration of that journey: of the courage it takes to start, the effort it takes to keep going, and the pride that comes with progress. I’m incredibly proud to be part of a programme that doesn’t just open doors, it helps people walk through them with purpose, confidence, and hope, often straight into the very workplaces that believed in them first.