I joined the Trust as an IT Engineer on the 25th April 2022 – I’m actually celebrating my two year work anniversary this week! I initially joined for a trial period at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre Wirral and in 2023 was given a permanent position.

Since I was a teenager, I really liked computers and technology. I’m from Brazil, and computer equipment is very expensive there, so I always liked opening and assembling/building better computers with spare parts. I spent hours and hours "playing" with it! I was always sure that I’d like to follow a career in this field.

While I worked during the day, I went to college at night to study Systems Analysis and Development. It was a long, but essential period to get to where I am today. I got a job in Brazil, then got to travel and work in Portugal, before moving to the UK.

My mother tongue is Portuguese, so learning a new language is complex and a daily thing. Especially because here in Liverpool we not only have English, but also Scouse! When I moved to the UK, I started studying at college and taking the ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) course. It’s incredible today to be able to talk, share ideas, learn content, maybe simply listen to music or even watch a movie. All in English!

If I could offer any advice to those also learning English as a second language, don’t wait! Get started today! No need to buy a course or spend money. Start by changing the language of all your devices and consume as much as possible.

For those who are already at a reasonable English level, but don’t apply for “better” positions for fear of communication, please don’t be afraid! Speak wrong, speak like a 5-year-old but try!

I’ve always felt supported by everyone at Clatterbridge and made to feel at home. There is such a good work environment and I’m surrounded by excellent professionals to learn and share experiences with. I find it really rewarding to be able to help colleagues with everything IT to better perform their jobs. I am proud of my journey and what I have achieved so far.