The Platform is a dedicated jobs and skills base for young people, aiming to support 16-24 year old's in Blackpool who are not currently in work, education or training - offering a helping hand in the right direction.

Oleksandra Sokolovska sought support in August last year after coming to the UK to seek refuge and safety amid the conflict in Ukraine. She came to The Platform for help whilst dealing with difficult circumstances, and the team immediately enrolled her on the co-delivered Princes Trust ‘Explore’ Programme, which supports young people to develop new skills and improves employability and confidence.

Oleksandra went onto join a local College, however, was in need of a laptop to support her work – particularly with her upcoming IELTS (International English Language Testing System) test, where a high score is essential for acceptance on high level academic courses.

Princes Trust offered to support by gifting her a brand-new laptop, giving her a tool to help undertake the much-needed test and her future studies.

Oleksandra said she will be eternally grateful for the help she has received and hopes to progress to University in the near future.

And to end the story on an even higher note, Oleksandra recently learnt she has been nominated for a Princes Trust Award, for trying to overcome her obstacles and progress with her life.

Huge thanks to Prince's Trust and good luck with your studies, Oleksandra!