From trainee to employee – Youth Guarantee helps young Bulgarian woman find work in her field

When a colleague suggested the Youth Guarantee scheme, Theodora decided it was worth turning down the two job offers in order to gain some hands-on experience in her chosen field. ‘At first I was sceptical, but when I learnt more about the programme I was pleasantly surprised because it connected those seeking work with those offering it,’ she says.

Theodora started a six-month traineeship at a local accountancy firm. She was a little worried about finding a similar job after her traineeship ended so she was delighted when her manager called to discuss her future. ‘After talking with my manager, the two of us decided that it would be good for me to start working on a permanent employment contract,’ she says.

Without the Youth Guarantee scheme, Theodora isn’t sure where she would have ended up. But thanks to the programme, not only did she land a full-time job in her desired field; she says it also helped her become more independent and responsible. ‘Personally, I am very happy that I had the chance to take part in the scheme,’ she says.

What is the Youth Guarantee?

The Youth Guarantee offers a new approach to reducing the level of youth unemployment by ensuring that all young people under 25 get a good quality, concrete offer of a job, apprenticeship, traineeship or continuing education. The scheme requires this to be on the table within 4 months of the young person leaving formal education or of becoming unemployed. Frequently asked questions on the Youth Guarantee can be found here.

Relevant links

Youth Guarantee and Youth Employment Initiative – Video

Youth Guarantee Questions and Answers

The Youth Employment Initiative

Read more:

Find a EURES Adviser

Working and living conditions in EURES countries

EURES Jobs Database

EURES services for employers

EURES Events Calendar

Upcoming Online Events

EURES on Facebook