Chika Ukah

During my time working at Arc Hospitality, I gained valuable experience in the hospitality industry, where I developed strong customer service skills, the ability to work under pressure, and teamwork. My role involved interacting with a diverse range of customers, handling orders efficiently, and ensuring a positive experience for guests, even during busy periods.

I am a hardworking and adaptable individual with retail experience, having worked at B&M from August 2022 to December 2022 while completing Year 12. During this time, I developed strong skills in customer service, communication, time management, and teamwork in a fast-paced environment. I’m comfortable handling cash transactions, managing stock, and solving problems under pressure. I’m always eager to take on new challenges, learn new skills, and contribute effectively in dynamic work environments.

During my one-month role at Sainsbury's in July 2022, I played an active part in ensuring a positive customer experience by offering assistance on the shop floor, answering product-related queries, and providing prompt service. I focused on maintaining a clean and organised store layout, which contributed to a better shopping environment for customers.

I was also involved in stock control, where I helped manage inventory levels, ensured products were restocked efficiently, and reported low stock items to maintain smooth store operations. In addition to these tasks, I worked closely with the sales team, supporting their efforts in meeting daily targets and enhancing overall store performance. Through this experience, I developed strong teamwork, customer service, and time management skills.

I was one of 12 individuals selected from over 1,000 applicants to take part in the TFL work experience programme. During this opportunity, I worked on developing innovative mechanical systems and solutions to improve the performance of London’s transport network. A major focus was on designing strategies that not only enhanced productivity but also minimised safety risks through thorough inspections and structured maintenance schedules.

In addition to tackling operational challenges, I collaborated with my team to analyse various data sets and statistics, working towards practical solutions for issues faced by the Transport for London service. A key area we explored was reducing carbon emissions, which heavily contribute to the pollution in London. By focusing on sustainable transport options and eco-friendly innovations, we aimed to reduce the environmental impact of the city's transit system.

Throughout the programme, I also led team discussions, fostering effective communication and ensuring that ideas were shared efficiently. This experience gave me valuable insights into engineering solutions, data analysis, and teamwork, all while contributing to efforts to make London’s transport system more environmentally sustainable.

During my one-year part-time volunteer role at Powerhouse International Ministries, I was responsible for leading and participating in a variety of fitness activities for youth aged 11 to 21. This role involved organising and setting up activities for participants from diverse backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and community engagement.

I facilitated engaging group activities that improved interpersonal skills among the youth, helping them connect and build stronger relationships. In addition, I provided emotional support to foster the mental well-being of children and teenagers, ensuring they felt heard and supported. I also coordinated outdoor events that emphasised team-building and cooperation, encouraging collaboration and mutual respect among participants.

Through this experience, I developed strong communication skills by interacting with new people regularly and building connections. I also built resilience as I practiced and improved my own skills in sports like table tennis, which challenged me initially but helped shape my determination and perseverance.