A BRAVE young Rugby woman who overcame bullying and severe anxiety to achieve her dream job has been honoured with a prestigious national award.
Abby Lundie, 25, was presented with the Young Women’s Trust ‘Conqueror’ award at a ceremony in London, where she was congratulated by Princess Alexandra.
The awards, presented by business leaders Karen Blackett OBE and Dr Shaheena Janjuha-Jivraj, celebrated young women who have overcome barriers to success, and focus on women starting their careers, rather than those at the top of their professions, to highlight how difficult it can be to get a foot in the door.
And the Trust chose Abby as their ‘conqueror’ because of the way she overcame so many challenges to start a career she is passionate about.
The 25-year-old loves working with people and always dreamed of becoming a nursery nurse but found opportunities hard to come by.
Alongside anxiety and low self-confidence, Abby faced bullying and, at one point, homelessness.
But, after she was unable to achieve the necessary qualifications to get on a course, Abby began to get support from local charity Doorway, who referred her to the Prince’s Trust.
With their help, Abby built her confidence and self-esteem and is now living independently in her own home.
She got her CRB certification after a successful work placement at a local care home, allowing her to apply for work experience at a local nursery – after which, she will be offered a full apprenticeship.
Abby said: “I’m so happy to receive this award from Young Women’s Trust. I’ve been working really hard and it feels great to be recognised for that.
“I’m really grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way.
“My advice to other young women like me is to keep going, keep working hard, and not to be afraid to ask for help if you need it – from friends, family or charities like Young Women’s Trust.”
Rugby MP Mark Pawsey said: “I want to congratulate Abby on winning the Young Women’s Trust ‘Conqueror’ award. Young women like Abby are working hard to find jobs and it is great to see that work being recognised.”
Young Women’s Trust chief executive Dr Carole Easton OBE said: “These young women are outstanding role models for the hundreds of thousands of young women struggling to get a foot on a career ladder.
“Progress is being made to increase the number of women in senior leadership roles, but this is not making a difference to the barriers young, disadvantaged women face getting a job in the first place. It’s time their challenges and efforts were recognised.”
