Blog
Meet MTC – Omar
As advocates for inclusive hiring practices, at MTC FutureReady we pride ourselves on practicing what we preach. Our workforce consists of more than 500 people from diverse backgrounds. Many of them have experienced the same challenges our clients might face.
By supporting over 22,000 people in overcoming barriers to meaningful work, we strive to provide the best support to our clients and employers. We are able to do so because of our people.
Meet Omar, a Skills for Education and Employment Trainer at MTC FutureReady Liverpool. Omar turned 50 this year and holds a double master’s degree. Before joining MTC, he spent 15 years in sales and marketing roles. Looking for a new challenge, he took a chance and completed a Graduate Certificate in TESOL at Macquarie University and secured a position with MTC.
Since then, he has embraced significant lifestyle changes to continue his role as a SEE Trainer at MTC FutureReady Liverpool. Open-minded and committed to personal and professional growth, he has constantly sought opportunities to learn and continues to do so. Outside of work, he is a self-proclaimed “mad tennis fan”.
Can you tell us about your career journey?
I’ve always been passionate about helping people grow, which is what drew me to training. At MTC Liverpool, I’ve had the opportunity to support students from diverse backgrounds while working alongside a fantastic team. Seeing students gain confidence and achieve their goals is what makes this job so rewarding.
What do you enjoy most about teaching people from diverse backgrounds?
Every student brings a unique perspective to the classroom. I love seeing people from different cultures learn from each other, build friendships, and grow together. Honestly, I learn just as much from my students as they learn from me.
How do you help your students feel confident when learning English?
I focus on creating a supportive environment where mistakes are seen as part of learning. I encourage students to focus on progress, not perfection. Sometimes a little encouragement and belief in their abilities can make all the difference.
Is there a student success story that has stayed with you?
There was one student I had in my class who had very little confidence in herself. She had a university degree but was struggling to find a job. So, we sat together, made a plan, polished her CV, and started practicing interview questions. In about 2 months, she had gained the confidence to pursue new opportunities and started applying for jobs and got an interview call in a very short period. She faced the interview and got her dream job with a very reputed organisation. Watching that transformation reminded me why I love teaching.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career?
I’ve been inspired by many people, but my manager, Jacqueline, has had a significant influence. Her leadership, support, and commitment to student success have encouraged me to keep developing both professionally and personally.
If you could travel anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go and why?
Without a doubt, I would travel to Makkah (Mecca). As a person of faith, it’s a place of deep spiritual significance and a destination that brings peace, reflection, and gratitude.
What would you say to your 21-year-old self?
Don’t worry so much about having everything figured out. Keep learning, take opportunities that challenge you, and trust the process. And maybe get a little more sleep because it becomes much more valuable with age.