Disadvantage has a negative connotation, is associated on the one hand with negative experiences that can lead to learned helplessness, and on the other hand with stigma, prejudice, misconceptions about additional skills, and undervaluation of skills and knowledge acquired in non-traditional ways.
But we know of some cases where people have been able to turn disadvantage into strength and long-term success.
Turning challenges into opportunities is about leveraging adversity to foster growth, innovation, and success. It involves adopting a positive mindset, resilience, and creativity to transform obstacles into stepping stones for personal and professional development.
In the context of the Inclusive Apprenticeships project, the concept of turning challenges into opportunities is crucial for mentors and apprentices alike. By recognizing and addressing the unique challenges faced by apprentices from disadvantaged backgrounds, mentors can help them build resilience and develop skills that lead to long-term success.
“However difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at.”
Stephen Hawking
World-renowned theoretical physicist and author, diagnosed with ALS at 21, which left him paralyzed