My name is Mahboob Ditta and my involvement with Skillnet goes back many years. 

When I joined Skillnet, I was quite shy and reserved.  I was also very inexperienced in using computers. With John’s encouragement, I enrolled on the Mind2Work computing skills course.  This course gave me good basic skills and confidence in a vital area of learning.  I then moved on to the FlexIT course with Skillnet’s partner organisation, Nisus Scotland.    

Through my long involvement with Skillnet, I have been invited to attend meetings, training sessions, outings – I particularly enjoyed the fishing trips - we went as a group where everyone was friendly and helpful and I felt very relaxed. 

As a result of the support I have received from the staff at Skillnet, I have also had the confidence to become more involved with other projects; I now speak in group settings and at conferences.  I was also very grateful for the successful employment opportunity as a sessional worker teaching English for the Skillnet Employability project. I have gained so many new skills and am much more confident and assured.    

I am pleased to say, in 2008, I received an Award from Edinburgh’s Lord Provost in recognition of my contribution to the Community.     

I have been so happy with the service that I have received over the years.  The staff at Skillnet are always welcoming and non judgemental.  I always recommend the organisation to new friends and colleagues who have been equally delighted at the service they have received. 

I am very grateful to John and Eddy for the support and guidance they have shown me and wish Skillnet Edinburgh every success for the future.