European Work Placement “Broadens Horizons”

Vi-Ability is delighted to announce the success of another two-week work placement to Turin, Italy. Funded by the Leonardo Lifelong Learning Programme, 15 NEET participants (aged between 16 and 25 years) from Conwy, North Wales were able to take part in this unique opportunity to learn about the best practices in professional Italian football club marketing, coaching and community departments; and experience the lifestyle and culture of Italy as a nation.
The programme is designed to help youngsters gain key life & employability skills and contribute to their personal development.

The group were taken to a number of Seria B and A football clubs including Torino FC, AC Milan, Juventus and Inter Milan. They were able to see how they were managed; from commercial sponsorship to ticketing activities and youth coaching programmes.

However, it was not all work. The group took part in a football tournament; ate out in local restaurants; were taken on cultural tours; and watched live football matches. Key highlights included: a visit to the site of the Superga air disaster; playing in a friendly match against Torino FC legends; a Q&A session with an ‘Ultras’ leader; and watching a live football match at the San Siro stadium between AC Milan and Novara Calcio (Serie A) – which happened to be the last ever game for International superstars Inzaghi, Gattuso and Nesta.
One of two female participants that took part, Natasha Farah commented: “The trip was amazing – a real confidence boost! And to be able to work in a different country gave me lots of new ideas. Being given the opportunity to work alongside professional staff at football clubs in Italy has made me realise where I could improve my own skills in the future.”

Vi-Ability Managing Director, Kelly Davies: “The difference that can be seen in participants since arriving back, is truly remarkable. The experience has helped them to develop their employability skills, but more importantly it has enabled them to broaden their horizons. It’s fantastic to see, and I’m extremely confident all of them will now go on to achieve great things in the future as a direct result”.

Vi-Ability would like to extend their thanks to: the Leonardo Life Long Learning Programme for funding the trip; to Global Vacations Ltd for sorting flights; to CJR International Sports for assistance in preparation & project management; and to everyone in Italy who hosted the participants while they were over there.

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