From Training to First Jobs: Darina and Lucia’s Stories
Meet Darina Sádovská, mother of a 2024 Profesia Lab graduate, and Lucia, a recent participant, who share how structured training, job coaching, company visits, and a first internship helped turn uncertainty into workplace confidence and daily purpose. Their stories highlight what matters most in the transition to work for youth with diverse abilities: time to prepare, a supportive environment, and real experience with employers.
LUCIA SADOVSKÁ
Profesia Lab Gradute 2024
My name is Lucia Sadovská. I visit the organization SPOSA, where I received information about the existence of Profesia Lab, and I managed to enter the program at the last minute. My expectations were to become more self-confident, become part of society, and learn to be productive.
What have you learned in Profesia Lab?
We have covered the main rules of workplace socialization with colleagues, including how to communicate or to dress appropriately and how to cope with different problems and not to be afraid to ask questions.
Have you participated in company visits?
I went to many company visits. It was important for me to figure out how it works and to get familiar with the premises. If the contact had been limited to written communication only, I would not have been able to determine whether I liked the building, if there were areas within the premises where I could feel comfortable, or whether the space was too open or too enclosed. I also appreciate when there is a quiet retreat where I can withdraw and be alone when experiencing high levels of stress.
Have you also applied for internships?
I chose 3 companies. It was Deutsche Telekom as I was interested in the job description, PricewaterhouseCoopers because I really liked their premises and Henkel because of the positive attitude the employees had towards us. In Deutsche Telekom I was working mainly with Excel and in Henkel, where I am now, I sort documents. It is amazing that all these companies involved in Profesia Lab already know what to expect from people with disabilities.
How would you evaluate Profesia Lab?
It is important to have a feeling that I am not helpless, that I can function in this world and not all the doors are closed for me. I instinctively know that I am able “to cross the room from one side to the other”, but I can also see some “stones” on the road which can stop me. Profesia Lab gave me the knowledge what to do with these “stones” - should I go around them or should I kick them aside and how to deal with these issues.
DARINA SÁDOVSKÁ
Mother of Profesia Lab Gradute 2024
I am the mother of a daughter on the autism spectrum. My daughter is eager to find employment and fulfill her potential. While searching for resources online, I discovered the Profesia Lab program.
Profesia Lab is a long-term program that begins with several months of training focused on developing social and communication skills. Participants learn how to collaborate with others, recognize their strengths, and communicate effectively in various situations.
The program starts with an academic phase, during which participants also have the opportunity to prepare psychologically. This is especially important for individuals on the autism spectrum, as they often need a low-pressure, supportive environment and time to adapt.
After this initial phase, participants gradually begin to interact with potential employers. My daughter took part in ten company site visits. These visits alone are incredibly valuable, as individuals who may feel isolated often have limited understanding of how the labor market works. Experiencing the workplace environment and overcoming initial fears is crucial.
Job coaches accompany participants during these visits, providing guidance and support to help overcome barriers. This assistance is extremely beneficial.
The final stage of the program involves internships with partner companies. My daughter completed an internship at Deutsche Telekom in an administrative role, where she entered data into the system. Individuals on the autism spectrum often excel at tasks requiring patience, concentration, and attention to detail, and she truly enjoys this type of work.
Just today, as we were heading to work, she expressed how much she was looking forward to a busy day. Before beginning her employment, she often lacked a sense of purpose and would retreat into her own fantasy world. Now, I observe her planning her days, adjusting her sleep schedule, paying greater attention to her surroundings, and even planning her purchases. For example, she recently mentioned wanting to buy work trousers similar to mine —something she never would have considered previously. Purchasing clothes specifically for work demonstrates that she is living a more engaged and realistic life.
For my daughter, work provides meaning in life. It makes the difference between having a child who stays at home and does not understand the purpose of leaving the house, and having a child who will make progress and advance in her life. It is remarkable to have such an opportunity.
