Ballyclare woman wins King’s Trust Breakthrough Award at Hillsborough Castle

Monira Zahan (Delta Air Lines), Natalie, Fiona Oseibaffour (Delta Air Lines)

A young woman from Ballyclare has been recognised for her resilience and determination after winning a prestigious award at the Northern Ireland final of The King’s Trust and TK Maxx Awards, held at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens.

Natalie, 22, scooped the Delta Air Lines Breakthrough Award at the ceremony on Friday 30 January, an accolade which recognises a young person who has overcome personal barriers to take their first steps towards achieving their goals.

The awards celebrate young people who have succeeded against the odds, improved their life chances and made a positive impact on their communities.

Natalie’s journey, shaped by years of bullying, health challenges and social anxiety, stood out among finalists from across Northern Ireland.

Reflecting on her transformation, Natalie said:

“Before the programme, I dreaded getting out of bed each day but now I have the confidence to tackle problems head-on and have a supportive community around me.”

Natalie has faced significant struggles with both her mental and physical health, challenges that affected her education, home life and confidence. After leaving college, she found herself isolated and unable to secure work, despite determined efforts.

She described the lasting impact of her school experiences:

“My school days were tough. I was bullied for 10 years which greatly impacted my self-esteem and physical health. It also contributed to me developing social anxiety – even placing my order in a fast-food restaurant was completely overwhelming and I was worried about being judged.”

Her mental health difficulties were further intensified following medical treatment that required four weeks of isolation, worsening her anxiety and depression and leaving her with physical symptoms that undermined her confidence.

Although she later completed a qualification in animal management at college, Natalie found social situations with people her own age remained deeply challenging. After graduating, she applied for more than 50 jobs over eight months without success.

She said:

“After leaving college, I had hoped things would get easier but I applied to over 50 jobs in eight months without a positive outcome. I felt as though my health problems were seen as a burden by employers. It was frustrating as I was putting so much effort into getting a job but no one would give me a chance.”

A turning point came when her Work Coach suggested The King’s Trust Get into Retail programme with TK Maxx. Although initially anxious, Natalie decided to attend.

She explained:

“I was extremely nervous on the taster day and dreaded walking into a room full of young people but the atmosphere in The King’s Trust centre put me at ease – everyone was accepting and non-judgmental. I was reassured that if I felt anxious, I could find a quiet place to step away.”

As part of the four-week programme, Natalie completed a work placement in a TK Maxx store, where staff ensured her support needs were met.

“It made me realise that people aren’t always critical and scary.”

By the end of the programme, her confidence had grown significantly. Natalie was offered a part-time contract with TK Maxx, a role she continues to enjoy.

She said:

“Since finishing the programme, my life has completely turned around. I was offered a part-time contract at TK Maxx and am loving it! Recently, for the first time in eight years, I walked into a café and made an order completely by myself.”

Looking ahead, Natalie remains focused on gradual progress and long-term aspirations.

“My goal is to one day feel ready for university and I would love to work with animals eventually. For now, I am very happy growing my confidence and skills at TK Maxx and working towards fulfilling my dreams.”

On receiving the Delta Air Lines Breakthrough Award, she added:

“It hasn’t fully sunk in that I have won the Breakthrough Award, but I’m massively proud of how much I’ve achieved and how far I’ve come.”

The award was presented by Monira Zahan, Red Coat at Delta Air Lines, who praised Natalie’s determination.

She said:

“Well done Natalie. Your resilience, determination, and belief in yourself inspire everyone around you. You have paved your way for a positive future and we wish you every success.”

Natalie will now go forward for consideration as a National King’s Trust Award winner at a celebration event in May 2026. The King’s Trust Celebration, held in partnership with TK Maxx at the Royal Albert Hall, will spotlight winners from across the UK in an evening of music, comedy and awards celebrating young people supported by the Trust.

Youth charity The King’s Trust supports young people to build the skills and confidence needed to move into work, education or training. Three in four young people helped by the Trust in the past five years have gone on to employment, education or training.

With almost a million young people currently not in work, education or training across the UK, the charity remains committed to tackling youth unemployment and ensuring every young person has the opportunity to succeed.

About The King’s Trust

The King’s Trust (formerly The Prince’s Trust) believes every young person should have the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or the challenges they face. The charity supports young people from disadvantaged communities and those experiencing significant adversity, helping them develop the confidence and practical skills needed to live, learn and earn.

The Trust delivers a range of courses and programmes for young people aged 11 to 30, designed to build essential life skills, prepare participants for employment and connect them with job opportunities. The organisation emphasises the importance of stable employment and entrepreneurship in helping young people achieve long-term security and fulfilment.

Founded in 1976 by HM The King when he was HRH The Prince of Wales, the charity has supported more than one million young people across the UK. Over the past five years, three in four young people helped by The Trust have progressed into work, education or training.

Following its name change to The King’s Trust, the organisation says it reflects its Royal Founding President’s continued dedication to its work. The Trust remains committed to supporting young people to build brighter futures, with benefits extending beyond individuals to strengthen communities and contribute to the wider economy.