Ultan’s Story: Growing and Succeeding with NOW Group

Ultan began his journey with a placement at the Bobbin coffee shop in Belfast City Hall, quickly standing out for his exceptional customer service and positive attitude. Recognising his potential, Piia, the café manager, enthusiastically recommended him when Karen, Loaf’s Academy and Quality Coordinator, was selecting candidates for the first Customer Service and Barista Academy. Piia shared that customers consistently praised him, describing him as a reliable and valued team member.

In May, Ultan joined the Loaf Academy, embracing a new routine of three six-hour shifts per week alongside a dedicated class day. The transition was significant, but he approached it with determination and a willingness to learn. While Ultan quickly mastered the technical aspects of the role, from coffee preparation to operating the till, it was his natural talent for connecting with people that truly shone. Ultan demonstrated an innate ability to connect with people, making him a standout in customer-facing roles.n.

Following the academy, Ultan continued to build his skills through further café placements and by joining the Cleaning Academy. His confidence grew steadily, reinforced by ongoing positive feedback from staff and customers alike. Recognising Ultan's progress and potential, Karen began exploring paid employment opportunities for him.

Given his strengths in customer service, Karen reached out to the management team at the Grand Central Hotel and arranged a meeting to introduce Ultan. The managers were impressed and soon contacted Karen with a job offer for Ultan to join their team as a concierge.

When Ultan received the news, he was overwhelmed with joy, saying, “I am so happy I have tears in my eyes.” This role is a perfect fit for Ultan’s talents, and there is no doubt he will thrive in this new position.

Ultan’s journey is a testament to the power of opportunity, support, and personal growth. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and excited to see what the future holds for him.

Adding a personal touch, Ultan’s mum shared that when the Grand Central was on Royal Avenue back in the 1950s, a very special member of her family worked there as a Bell Boy at just 14 years old, highlighting a meaningful connection across generations.

Learn more on how NOW Group can support you into employment - www.nowgroup.org/training-jobs