At Sisk, we have a dedicated passion for social value – enhancing communities and individuals around our projects is key for us, as it was for John Sisk when the company was first founded in Ireland. We recently spoke with Hema, an administrator for Sisk based in Manchester.
After completing University back home in India I worked for the Standard Chartered bank as a software engineer. After having my kids, I wasn’t able to continue in that role, as I had started a family. After a while my husband moved to England for work, and we all came over with him.
Once I came here, I was keen to restart my career. After being at home for so long, I started to feel depressed with all the normal routines, and it felt like I was achieving nothing.
I had heard about the Manchester-based charity Mustard Tree, which provides individuals with pathways to greater financial security and settled homes. I reached out to Mustard Tree, and they mentioned I could take some classes initially, so I decided to take some art sessions. One of the best parts of taking these classes was how it helped me make friends. The social side really enhanced the whole experience and made it much more enjoyable.
After a while they mentioned I could join their ‘Freedom Project’ which is set up for people who want to make a positive change in life. I was a part of this for around a year. From there I met Christina, the Regional Social Value & Stakeholder Manager of UK North, and I came to experience Sisk for the first time for work placement training. I was very comfortable, and I felt like I could do something really interesting with them.
I gained experience in 4D modelling and Photoshop, followed by a part-time administrative role before Christina subsequently called me and found me my current role at Sisk, which I was delighted about.
I’d like to develop software ultimately, mainly around automation, although AI is changing the scene rapidly. My daughter is also interested in software, so I’m trying to guide her too into a rewarding career.
Having this role with Sisk has given me many things. I have financial freedom and self-confidence. As a woman, I want to be a role model for my two daughters, to show them that women can be independent.
After I got married, I stopped working and stayed at home looking after the children, even though I had a career before. I ended up doing nothing, and then the depression set in. It reveals a sadness that you can’t express.
Once I’d been to Mustard Tree, I started speaking out. If I hadn’t made that move, I wouldn’t be here with Sisk. It’s boosted my confidence so much. Working for Sisk, they don’t only think about growing the business, they take care of the people around them.
That is the main thing I like about Sisk. I was warmly welcomed, and everyone treats each other as a companion, which is amazing.