Home | Our Stories |
Oriana’s Story: My journey from uncertainty to a new role with ABS’s help
Stories
When Oriana faced an unexpected redundancy after 14 years in the architectural profession, she found herself at a daunting crossroads. Despite her extensive experience and qualifications, securing a new position became an overwhelming challenge, leaving her financially and emotionally strained.
With her savings rapidly dwindling and no clear path forward, Oriana turned to the Architects Benevolent Society (ABS) for support. What followed was a transformative journey that not only stabilised her career but also reignited her passion for architecture.
Oriana’s Testimony:
“When I approached ABS for help in November 2023, I was facing an unexpected redundancy. Despite my qualifications and 14 years of experience, I struggled to secure a new position. This period was challenging both financially and emotionally, as I was down to my last savings and had no other means of support.
ABS provided crucial support by offering monthly grants for five months. This financial assistance was transformative. It covered my essential living expenses, including rent and bills, and allowed me to maintain my professional memberships. Without this support, I might have been forced to consider leaving the architecture profession in the UK, or relocating, potentially losing years of professional development.
Beyond the financial aid, ABS funded invaluable career guidance through Renovo, including mentoring opportunities and job search resources. This support helped me refine my CV, cover letter, and networking skills, leading to more interview opportunities. The combination of financial stability and career support allowed me to focus on my job search without the immediate pressure of financial instability.
The combination of financial stability and career support allowed me to focus on my job search without the immediate pressure of financial instability.
Thanks to ABS’s comprehensive support, I secured a position as a Technical Architectural Designer at an AJ100 practice in May 2024. I am now focussed on excelling in my role and continuing my professional development. The resilience and skills I gained during this challenging period have strengthened my career in architecture and urban design.
Becoming an ABS Ambassador has allowed me to give back to the community that supported me. I am now able to raise awareness about ABS’s vital work and support others who may face similar challenges. This experience has highlighted the crucial role that ABS plays in supporting architects during difficult times, and how donations directly impact individuals in the profession.”
The support Oriana received from ABS involved monthly grants over five months. In addition to this financial assistance, Oriana benefited from career guidance through Renovo. The total support provided to Oriana by ABS amounted to approximately £9,000.
This comprehensive support was crucial in helping her navigate a challenging period in her life. However, the ability of ABS to provide such vital assistance depends entirely on fundraising efforts. Without the generosity of donors, ABS would not be able to help individuals like Oriana rebuild their lives when faced with redundancy, financial hardship, poor health, or other crises.
By joining ABS’s incredible group of fundraisers, you can make a real difference and ensure that architects in need continue to receive the support they deserve.
