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They’re winners. Angela, Graham, Isiah, Jack, Michael, Rissvoy, Robert, Shelley and Robert met at BBC Birmingham on the 14 May 2008.

Angela

They’ve all been recognised by the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education (NIACE) as West Midlands people who’ve made remarkable progress.

At BBC Birmingham they met and shared their stories of how they’ve battled their fears and adversity to gain qualifications and experience they once never thought possible.

For example, Robert Turner, 39, from Birmingham, has confronted his dyslexia. He has joined a literacy course at work - Birmingham International Airport.

Robert Turner

“I knew that my spelling and grammar were poor and was too ashamed to ask for help”, he says. “Positions came available many times for terminal assistants but I knew tests were involved and I knew I would never pass them.”

Finally Robert became sick of missing the opportunities. “Terminal assistant positions became available again and I thought, ‘I want one of those’,” he says. “I spoke to the personal development manager and asked for help.”

After facing his fears, Robert got his promotion. He says:

Exchanging stories

“My message to everybody out there who is suffering – is to ask for help. Help is out there. Never be frightened of asking.“

Adult Learners’ Week, 17th – 23rd May 2008.

Adult Learners’ Week is about celebrating and raising awareness of learning.
For more information, see: www.niace.org.uk

Free magazine

BBC WM’s CSV Action Desk has free copies of 'New Horizons' magazine to send out. It contains details of courses and adult learning. Telephone 08453 030 030 for your copy.