My Life Now - meet Human Resources Coordinator Becca

It’s been 18 years since the Trust first set sail – what are the young people who have been on trips up to now? Our 'My Life Now' series shows a positive future after cancer is a reality. The confidence gained through the Trust inspired Becca to take on new challenges.

Name: Becca Austin

Age: 31

Pronouns: She/her

Diagnosis/year: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2015

When did you first sail with the Trust: I first sailed in July 2016

What do you do now:

I work in Human Resources for a big retail company.

Explain what that means?

I decided to pursue HR as for me it was the central hub of a business, that is where everything happens, from new starters to leavers and everything in between, so you can really get your teeth stuck into it all.

Why did you want to do this?

I have done numerous jobs following my law degree; however, I am a sociable person and I love being in the nitty gritty of a company. Getting to know the ins and outs of a business is really interesting. Plus, I am a bit nosey, so it’s great to get really involved in lots of things, and it’s a great department to learn. The head office is very local to me and it is an iconic brand, so I decided that this would be a great place to work, which was the best decision as I met my partner there.

What's the coolest thing you've done lately?

I feel like I haven't done anything cool because of covid, but I love spending time with my family and my partner and going down to Cornwall. Getting to explore Cornwall has been just amazing over the past two years when we can.

I have also enrolled in the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD) course to progress my career in HR. I wanted to do the course to really test myself and push myself in an educational way that I haven't done before, alongside working full time. This will also open up future prospects to me, so for once I am thinking ahead in time. I wouldn't have done this without having previously gained the confidence I did from the Trust.

Why did you need the Trust's support in recovery?

After my treatment, I was not in a great place, I was lacking in confidence and felt like I didn't really know how to smile but I absolutely loved my time sailing for the first time. Every trip with the Trust helps my confidence each time and takes me out of my comfort zone.

What part has the Trust played in you doing what you are now?

Without the confidence I have gained from the Trust I wouldn't have had the confidence to go for a course, like the CIPD, whilst working full time. I also never understood before going sailing, the feeling of being by the sea and being on boat makes you feel free and calm, so this definitely relates back to when I am in Cornwall and relaxing which is one of my favourite things.

What's your top tip for young people interested in working in your industry?

Embrace it and shadow who you can. Make sure you work hard, but that you also take the time to relax when you need to.