Hi, I’m Beth from The Work-wise Foundation, where I work as a Marketing and Events Executive. I’m excited to share a bit about my journey so far — from my very first job at 16 to where I am today.

Where It All Began

My career journey started while I was still at school. I was eager to earn my own money as soon as I could, so just two weeks before my 16th birthday, I interviewed for a waitressing job at a local pub and restaurant. I started a week after turning 16 and absolutely loved having that first taste of financial independence (and no bills to pay yet!).

I’d finish school, hop on the bus, get off at the tram stop, and revise for my GCSEs at work before my shift began. But as part of what I like to call the “COVID Year,” I never actually sat my exams — just the mocks — and like many others, I missed out on prom too.

A Change in Direction

From the age of 10, I was set on becoming an accountant. But after leaving school early, I decided to take a completely different path and study Photography at college. I loved every minute of it and graduated with a Distinction.

During COVID, I couldn’t work at the pub, so when it reopened, I returned — this time training as bar staff. After a while, I was ready for a new challenge and took a job at a gift shop, which turned out to be a great way to develop my sales and customer service skills.

Finding My Passion

While still in college, I discovered the Children’s Capital of Culture (CCOC) programme with Rotherham Council, which placed me at Magna Science Adventure Centre. That’s where I first met the Work-wise Foundation team.

At that point, my schedule was packed — I was studying part-time, working part-time at the gift shop, completing a six-month traineeship with CCOC, and working casual hours at Magna!

The CCOC programme was an incredible experience. I met some amazing people and had the chance to work alongside The Work-wise Foundation to create a major event — Get up to Speed with Culture & Leisure.

The Next Chapter

By June 2022, I’d completed my college course, my traineeship, and my role at Magna — all at the same time. Suddenly, I went from juggling three jobs to having just one, unsure of what to do next.

Luckily, an opportunity opened up at The Work-wise Foundation. I applied for the Sales, Marketing and Projects Trainee position — and got it!

Where I Am Now

Fast forward to today — I’ve now been with The Work-wise Foundation for over three years. I left the gift shop around 18 months ago and completed my Digital Marketing apprenticeship, achieving a Distinction.

I’m currently working as a Marketing and Events Executive, and I truly love what I do. Every day brings something new — from organising events to helping inspire young people about careers and skills for the future.

Looking Ahead

The next exciting step in my journey? I’m continuing my role at The Work-wise Foundation, while also launching my own business — Beth Loren Photography.

It feels amazing to be combining my love for creativity, people, and storytelling — both through my work at The Work-wise Foundation and my own photography business.

By Bethany Loren Edley – Marketing & Events Executive, The Work-wise Foundation