Eszter Kazinczi from Gara, Hungary was having difficulty finding work. Now she has a nationally-recognised qualification and is working as a social care provider and nurse on a permanent contract.  Thanks to a project funded by the European Social Fund, Eszter is optimistic about her future, 'I believe no one needs more in life – I have happiness in everything now: my family and my job.'

Growing/Women’s Opportunities – Training and Employment is delivered across north-east Hungary.  The project is targeted at people from Roma communities – particularly women – who face social prejudice and labour market discrimination. Delivered in 66 employment sites across the country, Growing/Women’s Opportunities provides training for two roles: child and youth inspector; and social care provider and nurse. By helping people into work, the project also strengthens participants' sense of social inclusion.  

Tünde Botos, from Merk, says, 'This was a great opportunity for us. Getting this certificate was a big deal and it is respected in the family also. Many of the students aim to graduate secondary school – like my mother. I’m training to become a specialised carer now.' 

By the end of 2021, more than 1,000 people had passed their exams and obtained qualifications listed in the National Qualification Register. To date, over 80 per cent of participants have achieved sustainable, meaningful employment in social welfare or other sectors. In January 2022, an additional 61 people will take the exam and will all be offered jobs after they pass. 

Norbert Rézműves, who lives in Mátészalka, took the opportunity to train as a child and youth supervisor. He says, 'Before this I worked in construction as a utility worker, but I always felt an ambition to break out of this situation. Most of us in the construction industry stayed at home for several months in winter. We lived on social benefits, so this programme was a great opportunity for us to get a permanent job.'  

Tünde Ruha Botosné, Tünde Botos' mother, also trained as a social care provider and nurse. She says, ' have paid off my debt through working here, but the love colleagues and patients give me– and what I can give – is the most important. I know, I have to be here. We are grateful to everyone for having us here and for helping us to finish the training and giving chances to Roma people.'