Dundalk man credits supported training college for transforming his life

A man from Dundalk, who once felt he was at his ‘lowest ebb’, has turned his life around thanks to the support of the team at National Learning Network (NLN) Dundalk, which will open its doors this week to showcase how it is transforming lives through inclusive training.

NLN, part of Rehab Group, provides flexible training courses and employment support services to people who need extra help to succeed in the workplace. Through tailored programmes and strong employer partnerships, NLN empowers individuals to build skills, confidence and sustainable careers.

NLN is inviting the public, employers, and policymakers to see first-hand how it supports those facing barriers to employment into meaningful, sustainable careers.

The NLN Open Day will be held on Wednesday, April 15th from 11am, at The Ramparts, Dundalk, Louth. 

For Damian Smyth, attending NLN Dundalk marked a turning point in his life. “My life was at a very low ebb and in the darkest of places. I didn’t want to be here anymore,” he said. “I knew something had to change, but I didn’t know where to start.”

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That starting point came when he joined NLN’s Fresh Start programme. “NLN wasn't just offering me a sanctuary, it was a place where I could find the real me and maybe discover talents that had laid dormant.

"But the most important thing for me to find was my voice. I got to a stage where I wasn't afraid of failure, I was embracing it. I knew whatever the outcome, all the NLN team had my back” he added.

Through tailored training in computer skills and communications, Damian progressed to employment as a warehouse associate. Within a short time, his performance led to a promotion to Warehouse Manager.

“The one thing I would say to all NLN students, please give yourself time to heal and trust in the process. No matter what hardships you're enduring, these wonderful, gifted instructors will guide you in a new path and will create a new you. Learning is everything” said Damian.

“This is about more than training, it’s about futures,” said Dr. Rita Day, Director of Learning with Rehab Group.

“Through our partnerships with over 700 employers, we are not only preparing people for work but actively connecting them with opportunities where they can grow and thrive and find jobs with a purpose.” 

Visitors to NLN Dundalk’s Open Day will have the opportunity to meet students currently undertaking training programmes, discuss supported education pathways and learn how NLN supports people into employment or further education. 

As Ireland faces ongoing skills shortages across multiple sectors, NLN is calling on more employers to engage with inclusive employment initiatives.

“There is a clear opportunity here, not just socially, but economically,” Rita Day added.

NLN’s National Open Day is being held across all centres in counties nationwide and is open to prospective students, families, employers, community organisations, and members of the public. Email info@nln.ie for more information.