Jason on life as our first Apprentice

Jason (pictured above alongside manager Dominic Mould) started work as the MEC’s first apprentice on July 9.

He got straight into refurbishing a run-down terraced house in Gorton which, once completed, will house three Genetik students and another MEC apprentice.

He has been able to put skills learned over 12 years in prison straight to use: painting, decorating, plastering, tiling and more.

Like all our future apprentices, Jason is working full time for a fair wage, closely supervised by a business manager who is as committed to his progress as to making a profit. Jason reports to MEC building manager Dominic Mould, who oversees the building business.

But what was starting work like for a young man who, apart from a two-week stint in a job aged 18, has never earned a wage before?

‘It’s been amazing coming into work every day and just getting on with the job. I’ve got a purpose. I meet loads of people who spend their time saying, “I can’t wait to finish work”. But to be honest, I love my job.

‘I know that God’s got me there for a reason. I like to see the change – seeing the old run-down things brightened up, being made new. Just like myself.’

Read Jason’s powerful testimony of transformation here.