FDM Returners Success Story: Onica Lewis

What were you doing in your career before your break? 

I was working as a Senior Project Manager in the banking sector in South Africa.   

What were you up to on your career break? 

During my career break, which coincided with the start of COVID started, I relocated from South Africa back to the UK and managed to complete Prince 2 Foundation and Practitioner exams (AXELOS 2020) and Agile PM Foundation and Practitioner exams (APMG 2021).

What were your biggest challenges in trying to get back into work? 

The biggest challenges were the changes to the way of applying for work opportunities and upskilling on the new ways of working.   

How did you find FDM and why did you decide to join? 

I came across FDM when I was in the market and looking for work opportunities. FDM has allowed me to re-enter the market and provided me with the necessary training and exposed me to new opportunities. I would not have been able to accomplish this without the support and kindness of FDM. 

FDM allowed me to retrain in a supportive environment, as well as placing me at one of the leading commercial banks in London where I have the privilege of working with wonderful colleagues as well as learning on a daily basis.  

The FDM business model provides training and support whereby they upskill their candidates to return to the workplace.  

I completed the evaluation interview and FDM offered me an opportunity to join. I can gladly say it has been one of the most positive life-changing events. At all times everyone at FDM is professional, efficient, and supportive in setting up their candidates for success. 

How did you find the FDM training? 

I enjoyed every minute of the training. The FDM trainers were excellent and the team members were wonderful. It was great fun and an effective way of preparing us to return to the working environment. 

What’s your current role and how does play a part in the day-to-day running of the business? 

I am currently working as a PMO Analyst. This includes assistance on reporting, planning, and ensuring adherence to the organisational governance processes. 

What’s your favourite project you have worked on so far? 

I’ve enjoyed working on the end-to-end financial and regulatory IT projects.

How do you think your personal experiences during your career break have shaped who and where you are today? 

My career break provided me with the time to reflect and study and was an opportunity to reset, replan and go forward.

Are there any transferrable skills that you have gained during your break and are now applicable within your role? 

Both Prince 2 and Agile PM are project related subjects that apply to my daily tasks and the overall working environment.  

What accomplishments are you most proud of during your time with FDM? 

Successfully completing the FDM training modules within the given timelines and the privilege of securing a placement with one of the leading banks in London. I also had the privilege to study towards the TOGAF certification.

If you’re looking to restart your career in tech or business, check out one of our dedicated careers programmes. The FDM Returners to Work Programme is designed to help people just like you step back into a rewarding career with exceptional training to revamp your skillset, followed by work placements with our industry-leading clients.