#empathyhero
Carmen is a good listener with a passion for the people she serves.
Name:
Carmen
Occupation:
General support worker, public services
Sector:
Public sector
What they needed:
A Diploma in Business Psychology
Why:
To build on her practical experience with the right academic knowledge
Procurement
Guidance
SROI fulfilment
Carmen’s story
Carmen has a rich background. For years, she ran a successful patisserie in Romania. In April 2022, she made a brave decision: to sell everything and build a new life in the Netherlands with her husband and daughter. The move was necessary, and she feels grateful to call the Netherlands home.
Carmen had to let go of her dream. Physical limitations mean she can no longer spend hours on her feet as a pastry chef. She needed a new role, something that suited who she is: caring, genuine and reliable. She was tired of being at home.
Her opportunity came through the STiP programme at the Municipality of The Hague. Today, Carmen works at the Lokaal, where she feels completely in her element. Her workplace has become a second home. She has grown into a key point of contact, approachable, friendly and helpful. Colleagues and visitors know they can turn to her for support. This marks an important step in her social and professional integration. Her strong wish to keep working after STiP, through the Banenafspraak (Jobs Agreement) or in a regular role, is the clearest proof of her success.
Her biggest challenge is the language. Her perfectionism still makes her hesitant to speak Dutch. She is taking classes, and she is determined to take charge, including by practising on her own.
In recent years, Carmen has often put responsibility first. Now she wants to invest in a healthy, sustainable future. She wants to build on her wealth of life experience with strong, up-to-date knowledge.
That is why the Diploma in Business Psychology is so important. It will help her do her daily work with residents even better, work where understanding behaviour, wellbeing and motivation is essential. The course will strengthen her communication skills and professional decision-making.
This is more than a certificate. It is a chance to take the lead. Carmen is investing in her employability and her long-term future. The deeper knowledge of psychology will also help her complete her bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a great dream of hers despite her financial circumstances.
Carmen sees herself as a valuable force within the municipality. She remains positive and determined. She is shaping her own success and wants to put her new knowledge to use straight away, seeing her growth reflected in her work.
