FROM UNEMPLOYED TO EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR: WESLEY’S NANDOS SUCCESS STORY

Wesley, 23 from Harehills, West Yorkshire, was referred to Street League back in March 2025 after being unemployed for just under a year. In school he struggled to get the additional support he required or a learning plan to recognise the adjustments that would benefit Wesley. Therefore Wesley, an extremely talented artist left education with a single qualification in Art.

As a polite young man with an infectiously positive outlook, Wesley instantly became a valued member of Street League job club. However, multiple setbacks had dented Wesley’s confidence to re-enter both education and the workplace. For mock interviews Wesley would arrive with a full page of notes but struggle to articulate himself when asked questions directly. Over the spring Wesley took part in group sessions around confidence building and practiced speaking openly to other members of the group.

As we entered summer Wesley indicated that he felt ready to try and get into work. It had now been over a year since Wesley’s short stint as a kitchen porter. He told staff that he wanted to work in food again but this time within a role where he could speak to customers. A role arose with Burger King in one of Leeds partner stores and Wesley completed two practice interviews to make sure he felt confident. On the day he met Sam for a coffee over the road before going into the restaurant to introduce himself.

After the interview Wesley texted the following:

“I finished the interview and I feel confident after that and its thanks to you and everyone at Street League”

It was therefore a disappointment when Wesley was unsuccessful at Burger King. Luckily staff were able to use the relationship with Burger King to get Wesley feedback. The manager said he “interviewed well” and as Wesley wanted a certain amount of hours “it wouldn't be fair to him” given current staffing in the restaurant. Nevertheless, this was a blow for Wesley, and he showed improved resilience to continue building his self esteem and belief. He continued to look for similar positions and gained an interview with Nandos in the centre of Leeds. Management in store instantly took to Wesley with his newfound confidence. In June 2025 Wesley was offered a permanent position with the hours he had requested.

Returning to employment was a considerable challenge for Wesley. After four weeks in the role the manager in store spoke to street league about supporting Wesley in the work environment and making adjustments so not to overwhelm him. 6 months on and Wesley has made quite the impact at Nandos Leeds Briggate. Despite only joining in June, Wesley was awarded employee of the year for 2025! It wasn’t just the staff at Street League overjoyed by Wesley’s achievement. The restaurant manager Alex had this to say about Wesley:

“He really has become a star and much loved by the team”

For Wesley it required people to believe in him before he could believe in himself. In his spare time from working, Wesley continues to explore his passion for Art.

The sky’s the limit for Wesley!