Your questions about returning to work answered
-
What challenges did this ex-offender face when returning to work after incarceration?
-
What motivated him to stay focused on his career journey?
-
What advice does he give to others looking to re-enter the workforce?
Watch this video to learn more about Wan’s inspiring journey back to the workforce!
In our Surviving the Career Swings video series, we speak to Singaporeans who are currently in the midst of improving their career health, and in this episode, we speak to Kurniawan (Wan) Bin Mohamed. Here’s his story below.
Wan’s return to work journey
He always wanted to be a chef. That was Wan’s dream after spending his youth watching his mother whip up amazing dishes for the family.
But dreams can be derailed. For Wan, he had a personal struggle with addiction, which led to two incarcerations, resulting in lost time and opportunities.
Beyond that, he missed out on a chance to care for his son, who was conceived in the four years between his incarcerations.
Thankfully, he received help from the Yellow Ribbon Programme, which afforded him ample opportunities to upgrade his skills.
He shared more with us below.
You’ve taken many courses during your incarceration. What made you pick these courses?
Wan: One of the areas where I wanted to improve myself was my communication skills, as I felt that I needed to present myself better. I also wanted to progress in life, and hence took up courses to build my self-confidence.
Tell us about your career journey after your incarceration.
Wan: The first two months was challenging as I wasn’t sure of the industry that suited me best.
In the end, I chose the Food and Beverage (F&B) industry, because of my interest in the culinary arts, I worked at Swensen’s as my first job after my incarceration.
In my employment history, I had always worked as a part-timer, taking on ad hoc jobs.
I had never been in a structured work environment prior to my employment with Swensen’s.
Frankly, the first week was very tiring as I was not used to working full-time and waking up early for work. However, I was aware that I needed to adapt, so I strived and worked hard.
What kind of support have you received?
Wan: The support from my family, especially my stepsister was very important as she reminded me constantly of the need to stay focused, and the reason for doing all of this.
My main motivation is my son.
During my incarceration, I missed his first birthday and I was very adamant not to miss another birthday. I want to be around to witness his growing up years.
For fellow Singaporeans looking to re-enter the workforce, what would be your advice for a successful transition?
Wan: For people who were in the same circumstance as me, I would like to remind them not to give up and it is never too late to change. There will always be second chances.
For folks in different circumstances who are also looking to rejoin the workforce, my suggestion is to give any job a try when the opportunity arises, and to use your SkillsFuture credits to upgrade yourselves!
Follow us on LinkedIn for more expert career guidance and industry insights: Workforce Singapore on LinkedIn
Stay updated with the latest trends, job market shifts and career health advice from WSG.
