Zenel Lika, now 19, fled the war torn Kosovo to the UK in 2002, after his house was attacked by masked gunman and his mother arranged his escape. After arriving in Warwick when he was 14, he went to school before being accepted to undertake an Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering.
On arriving in the UK, Zenel could not speak a word of English and was forced to communicate via body language. Despite this, his academic achievements since fleeing his home country have been incredible. When he arrived in the UK he had no formal qualifications but by the end of Year 11, with the help and support of his foster parents and school he had successfully passed his GCSE Maths, Science, English and Art. After leaving school, Zenel’s good academic results enabled him to progress to an Advanced Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering.
Alan Naylor, Director at A N Tools, believes that Zenel is a remarkable individual and has high hopes for his future. ‘Zenel has overcome barriers over the past four years that, to most people, would be untenable. He has become a well respected member of the local community and his achievements at school, college and work make him a shining example.’
Zenel says: ’I was determined to succeed and make something of myself despite my circumstances. It’s been difficult for me to learn the language and keep studying but I was determined to achieve something. I will not give up until I have gained my qualification.’
Phil Warrington, training coordinator at North Warwickshire & Hinckley College, says: ’Zenel is an admirable individual with a real thirst for knowledge. He has shown great determination and is currently working towards his Advanced Apprenticeship at North Warwickshire & Hinckley College. He deserves to win this award due to his continuous drive and commitment, despite his circumstances.’
Last year, Zenel won the Workforce Development Learner of the Year for North Warwickshire & Hinckley College.
Zenel Lika is a finalist in the Personal Achiever category at the national Apprenticeship Awards 2007.
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