Haniya

AGE: 17
POSITION:  Retail Clerk
EMPLOYER: Mariano’s
EMPLOYED:  January 2021

Haniya is a senior at Sullivan High School. She started working at a grocery store in 2019 to help her family, but knew it wasn’t the right fit for her. In June of 2020 she sought out her career advisor Hester Buell, and together they found an opportunity that would be perfect: working at Old Navy through This Way Ahead. Through the TWA program, Haniya received training in customer service, conflict resolution, interview prep, and COVID safety practices. After completing training and working with Hester to prepare for the interview, Haniya landed the job! She began working as a Sales Associate at Old Navy in Lincolnwood mall. She got to interact with customers, and work as a part of a tight-knit team.

Once the holiday season ended, Haniya realized she wasn’t getting enough hours. She reached out to Hester again, and this time Employer Relations Manager Amanda Marks was able to provide a connection to Mariano’s. Hester helped her complete the application and prepare for the interview, and Haniya drew on her previous training and experience working at Old Navy. She was offered the job immediately, and is now working as a retail clerk at Mariano’s! She finished training and enjoys getting to work on a friendly and supportive team. Way to go, Haniya!