Working Wales, a free advice and guidance service funded by the Welsh Government, has now supported 200,000 people on their employment journeys.
Among those who have benefited is 27-year-old James from Wrexham, who turned to the service after five years in the television industry left him at a career crossroads.
James said: “I didn’t really know what to do.
“I didn’t want to just get a job anywhere.
“I wanted a career that I can work towards – something I can move up in and do something using my skills in a different way.”
After visiting the Careers Wales centre in Wrexham, James met adviser Laura, who helped him explore his options.
James Veal (Image: Supplied) James said: “I was just completely honest with Laura when we met.
“And she was really honest with me too.
“It was refreshing.
“We talked about different careers and ideas, and when I said there were certain jobs I definitely didn’t want to do, she didn’t question it – she just said, ‘That’s fine.
“Let’s talk about what you do want to do.'”
During their conversation, Laura noticed James’ involvement in a vintage machinery club, where he organised events and managed volunteers.
James said: “Laura looked at that and said, ‘You’ve got all these skills in events.
“Have you ever thought about working in that?’”
With her support, James began applying for roles in events and eventually secured a position as an events assistant at the Llangollen Railway Trust.
He said: “Laura helped me see how to read a job application properly… what I need to include in my CV and how to write a cover letter.
“Laura helped me to see my potential and boost my confidence.
“I’d really recommend Careers Wales.
“Especially if you’re looking for a new opportunity or career change.
“Come and have a chat – they’re so friendly and they will help you.”
The 200,000th customer was Pauline Smith from Cardiff, who sought support after taking voluntary redundancy from her radio production job earlier this year.
The 57-year-old was torn between continuing freelance work and pursuing her interest in yoga teaching.
Encouraged by a friend, she explored the ReAct+ scheme and booked an appointment with careers adviser Gareth Richards at her local Working Wales centre.
ReAct+ is a Welsh Government programme offering tailored advice and financial support for training, travel, and care costs.
Pauline said: “It’s much more about giving people confidence that they are okay.
“It was just nice to talk through with somebody the fact that I’ve taken redundancy, and to look at where I was at and where I was going to go.
“Everybody has something to offer when they walk through those doors – it’s just finding out what that is and how confident they are in those.”
Pauline Smith (Image: Supplied) Nikki Lawrence, chief executive of Careers Wales, said: “Reaching our 200,000th customer is a major milestone for Working Wales and a clear reflection of the impact we’re having on individuals and the wider Welsh economy.
“James and Pauline’s stories highlight how we help people at every stage of life to build their confidence, develop their skills, and find meaningful work.”
Working Wales, delivered by Careers Wales, offers personalised support to anyone aged 16 and over, whether they are just starting out, facing redundancy, or looking to retrain.
The service is available online, by phone, and in-person across Wales.