Krishan’s Leap: From Self-Doubt to Self-Belief

Krishan Patel, an 18-year-old from Waltham Forest, grew up in a supportive family and successfully completed his college studies. He had secured a place at university, but as the start date approached, he began to doubt whether he was ready. Unsure of how he would navigate university life, Krishan made the difficult decision not to attend. This left him feeling uncertain about his future and questioning whether he could succeed without a degree.

Despite his positive attitude and eagerness to learn, Krishan struggled with self-doubt and a lack of direction. With limited job experience and no clear career path, his confidence began to fade. He found it difficult to stay motivated and started to feel that his options were limited. While he was socially engaged and valued teamwork, professional settings—especially interviews—felt intimidating.

Krishan joined Leyton Orient Trust’s Training Ground Programme as part of the first group of participants. From the beginning, he was an active and engaged member of the group, quickly becoming a key contributor. The programme focused on building essential employability skills to help young people transition into the workforce. Krishan took part in sessions on CV writing, interview techniques, workplace behaviours, and career awareness.

EFL in the Community’s Training Ground programme is currently available to those aged 16-24 living within the Greater London Authority area and is an employability programme designed to support those seeking employment or further training.  The Training Ground programme offers small groups the chance to receive one to one mentoring, participate in group workshops on topics such as life skills and money management, undertake work experience or volunteering in a range of contexts, to develop employability skills, and to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

Throughout the programme, Krishan’s confidence grew. He supported his peers, contributed to group discussions, and helped create a positive and inclusive learning environment. His transformation was clear—not only in his skills but in his mindset.

Since completing the programme, Krishan has successfully secured employment, taking his first step into the workforce. He continues to stay in touch with programme staff, seeking guidance and building on the relationships he formed. Most importantly, he now approaches interviews with confidence and has developed a strong sense of self-belief. He’s realised that university isn’t the only path to success—and that with the right support and mindset, there are many ways to build a meaningful career.

Krishan said: “I loved how much support the team gave me, even when I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do. They showed me that my opportunities aren’t limited and that there are lots of different paths I can take.”

To find out more about your nearest Training Ground programme,  please contact your local Club using the list below.