Marvin OnumonuVMS Ltd has teamed up with Bedford Giving and 4YP UK to support students, focusing on those with dyslexia, through mentoring.
This partnership aims to inspire students to build confidence and explore future career aspirations.
Kev Garfield (pictured, centre), head of business support, is leading VMS’s involvement.
Garfield said: “I’m really honoured to be invited to be part of the Bedford Giving Career Mentoring Programme and engage with students.
“I’m fortunate to work for a company that offers assistance to individuals with additional needs.
“As someone who has dyslexia, I have faced challenges with reading and writing throughout my life.”
Garfield added: “That’s why I am eager to work with various schools and provide support to students with dyslexia.
“The situation now is quite different from when I was in school.
“I would have greatly appreciated the opportunity to meet someone with dyslexia during my education, as it would have helped me understand how to navigate a work environment while managing my dyslexia.”
He said: “This experience could have given me better insight into my future at a time when I was considering career options.
“My first session was very engaging and I observed a sense of confidence developing in the student as they witnessed an adult in a senior position facing challenges with dyslexia.”
Paul Kellett, director of Bedford Giving, said: “We couldn’t be more excited to have Kev on board. He’s travelling all the way from Leicester to support young people in Bedford – that’s real commitment to making a difference!
“He’s also keen to get involved in our Taste of the Workplace initiative, helping young people experience real-world work environments and build confidence for their future careers.
“We know Kev is going to be a fantastic mentor, and we’re so grateful for his passion and dedication.”
