Growth: Feeling uncomfortable to feel comfortable | by Sufyaan Patel

I grew up in Hackney in east London, growing up was difficult as Hackney was a deprived area which had a lack of opportunity which meant it was always that extra bit challenging. From a young age, I always wanted that extra bit more from life, I wanted a good career and to make positive change within my community to set a good example for the youth. I was always proactive from a young age, I had a strong passion for business which led me to start many businesses from a young age. I did not feel comfortable relying on schools or my environment to make me successful, I took control of my life and stirred it in the direction I wanted to go. 

 I founded my own high-end shoe-cleaning business. I had noticed a market gap for a shoe-cleaning service with a modern twist. I began my business journey with a very small amount of capital (£50), I had grit, persistence and belief that my business adventure would work. This business journey echoes my ' can do ' mindset as all I had was an inner drive to do well. From my initial small investment and after relentless effort, I began to see a return. The business grew further as more music artists and influencers started using the shoe-cleaning service, and I began to see growth of 200% month on month. My journey taught me a lot, I learnt what kind of person I am, I learnt how to build relationships, how to speak to people, how to manage finances etc.
I enjoyed my business journey but the best part was building and maintaining relationships with my customers. I believed the customers did not just buy into the service, but they also bought into me, making the business a success.

However, part of me wanted to learn a skill and start a professional career and I knew the best way to do that was through an apprenticeship. I was eager for change and professional growth so I began my hunt to find an apprenticeship that would benefit my professional career. 

My Story 

I set out to improve myself; I wanted to become knowledgeable about a field, progress, and create a clear professional path for myself. I never intended to attend university because I thought that an Apprenticeship would be a better fit for my learning style. Since I had no experience when I set out to achieve this aim, businesses had consistently turned down my applications. I wanted a chance so I could develop and learn, quickly realised nothing can be handed to you.

I had this relentless attitude towards my goals and aspirations, I took matters into my own hands and began to equip myself with fundamental skills that allowed me to pursue my goals. Despite the constant rejection I kept pushing and the only thing on my mind was 'resilience'.

After applying to numerous companies, I secured an interview with  Sarah J.C. Webster (line manager) from FundApps, and it was perhaps the best interview I have ever had. Not only did the company values resonate with me, Sarah ensured I was as comfortable as I could be which boosted my confidence to levels even I didn't expect.

Within two weeks, my 'never back down' attitude was rewarded as I started my journey at FundApps as a Client Services Apprentice. The door that I pushed for opened for me in July 2023. I could not have been given a better company to kick start my professional career as FundApps has a great culture and good values that push you to do better #raisethebar.

Starting off may have been hard but I was given so much help and guidance from Joseph Curtis (FundApps buddy) and Sarah. I appreciate how they understood that I was an apprentice; they put in their time and effort and helped me grow into the role.
Within only 4 months of being at FundApps, I have learnt:

•  How to update Help Centre articles
•  How to use Excel effectively (Pivot tables etc)
•  How to build reports on clients to measure success and risk factors
•  How data can be pulled and visualized
•  I have begun to learn how to communicate with clients

Within a short period of time, I have learnt so much, there is so much yet to learn, and I am excited to just grow. A big thanks to Multiverse for providing theoretical learning and continuously educating and developing the young youth of today.

“Aim for the stars, at least you land on the moon.”

This is my Journey, so stay tuned in as it is only the beginning. The only way is up!

Sufyaan Patel is a Client Services apprentice at FundApps based in London, UK and is in the DBA programme.