In the words of Mayar Yasser: Overcoming my fear of shifting careers was a defining moment. My journey proves that self-discovery and perseverance can lead to the first steps of a fulfilling career.

After years of academia to earn her bachelor’s degree in accounting, Mayar Yasser felt a jarring disconnect between her studies and her first professional experience. The 22-year-old fresh graduate, once inspired by numbers, found herself locked in a monotonous accounting job that failed to ignite her passion. Desperate for direction, she turned to FEMpower program.

“During my university years, I enjoyed the complexities of accounting, finding pleasure in its logical precision. But the reality of corporate life was a surprising contrast. Six months into my first accounting job, I realized my skills were being wasted on routine tasks like bookkeeping. I aspired for a job that is more intellectually challenging and that would truly leverage my abilities. While I was determined to find a fulfilling career, I knew I needed guidance along the way.

 FEMpower training offered a lifeline. Through a series of tailored exercises, I learned how to look for my dream job, by meticulously assessing my strengths, abilities and knowledge, coupled with extensive market research. Down the road, I learned that I have a strong eye for financial analysis – a skill that makes me a perfect candidate to work as a credit risk analyst in any reputable bank. With this newfound reality, I felt an exponential excitement and self-assurance. I grew eager to embark on a career shift that I knew would be both fulfilling and rewarding.

With the support of FEMpower advisors, I learned to draft a compelling resume tailored to each job application, rather than using a one-type-fits-all template. I meticulously started to analyze job descriptions, ensuring my resume highlights the exact skills and experiences required. This strategic approach yielded compelling results for my job hunt in the banking sector, as I began receiving a steady stream of interview requests. The training also equipped me with essential interview techniques. I learned how to articulate my skills, present myself in a professional and appealing manner, and the kind of feedback to request from interviewers. As I navigate the job market now, I feel armed with the right skills and prepared. I am currently in the recruitment process for several vacancies. Hopefully, I will receive positive news shortly.

Along with the career guidance, I managed to work on a significant personal challenge during the training – this is financial management. Despite my numerical skills, I used to struggle with overspending. I found myself reviewing my entire monthly budget in the first week, unaware of where the money had vanished. Thankfully, FEMpower training equipped me with essential financial management tools. I learned how to keep an open eye on my expenses and identify areas for cost reduction. With these savings, I plan to invest in further training courses that will enhance my knowledge and skills in the banking sector to strengthen my employment prospects.

I'm incredibly proud of my personal growth and transformation. Overcoming my fear of shifting careers was a defining moment. My journey proves that self-discovery and perseverance can lead to the first steps of a fulfilling career. My greatest advice is to never settle for a job that doesn't fulfill you; stay determined and pursue your true passion.

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^{The FEMpower training is organized and delivered by iSpark Egypt & iCareer and falls under UN Women Egypt’s programme on “Women’s Economic Empowerment”, implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, the Ministry of Labour and the National Council for Women, with the generous support of the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida).}