Learning digital skills helps grow Aisha’s confidence

An ICT Skills Builder course has helped one Blackburn resident to develop her digital skills, grow in confidence and improve her English.

Mother of two Aisha Mulla has shared her story to inspire others to learn new skills to help them get on in life and at work.

When Aisha joined the course at Audley Neighbourhood Learning Centre earlier this year, she had never used a computer before – and didn’t even know how to switch it on. She was lacking in confidence in both her digital skills and English as a second language.

The classes began with the basics of using a computer – including how to use a mouse – and progressed to job searches online and creating presentations.

Learning the terminology of IT and word processing has really helped Aisha’s English language skills to develop.

Aisha said:

At first, my confidence was zero, but slowly my confidence grew. I found that using a computer helps me to learn English too.  

I enjoy the classes. I feel really happy now, and proud of myself.

Aisha’s confidence has grown so much that she now readily helps other learners on her course.

Aisha has developed the skills to search for jobs and fill in online application forms. She hopes to get a job as a passenger transport assistant.

In the summer Aisha received the IT award in the 2024/25 Blackburn with Darwen Adult Learning Awards, nominated by her tutor in recognition of her progress in such a short space of time and the effort she puts into every class.

Councillor Julie Gunn, an Executive Member who represents Adult Learning, commented: 

Aisha’s success isn’t just about learning IT skills. It’s about building self-belief and using that belief to empower herself and not feel completely out of place in a digital world.

I wish her every success in the future.

Aisha’s progress inspired her husband Fakir to join the regular IT drop-in sessions at Audley Neighbourhood Learning Centre. He improved his online skills and updated his CV, and has now secured a job with the NHS.

Councillor Shaukat Hussain, Executive Member for Digital and Customer Services, added:

Digital inclusion has a huge part to play in people being able to get on in life, making the most of the opportunities they have available to them. Learning new digital skills can help you to save money on your bills, find work, stay in touch with friends and family and much, much more.

Find out more about IT classes through Blackburn with Darwen Adult Learning.  

To find out more about the ICT Skills drop-ins at venues in Blackburn and Darwen,  search ICT at https://bwdlearning.org/