A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step
Solas resident, Ian Whitehill from Newport, won the Community Learner of the Year award at the NIACE Inspire Adult Learner awards, organised by NIACE Dysgu Cymru which, in 2010, celebrated 25 years of promoting learning in Wales. The awards recognise learners whose achievements have been inspirational or life-changing.
After a series of health problems , Ian found himself homeless and living on the streets of London. He returned home to Newport and, with support from Solas, rekindled his love of the guitar through music classes. Ian’s confidence grew and so did his interest in learning. He turned his attention to IT and a Music Technology course at Compass, run in partnership with Glamorgan University. Ian passed with flying colours and developed a new focus for learning.
With his newly acquired skills, Ian is now helping other individuals who are homeless, encouraging them to find their potential. Ian has volunteered at Solas, has enrolled with the University of Wales, Newport completing a Web Design course and is undertaking an introductory course in animation.
Ian says, “I don’t think of academic success in terms of financial reward. I can’t say that learning has changed my life in that respect yet, but in terms of gaining confidence and self-respect, it certainly has. To anyone thinking of starting a course, I can only say go for it, you won’t regret it. As the man said, A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step.”
Ian is now living in his own accommodation and that ‘single step’ has lead to a journey of discovery that continues to enrich his life.
