Shonali Anthony Pillai

“I’m originally from Sri Lanka and moved to the UK with my family in July 2019 after completing my A Levels. I have always wanted to start a career in accounting, so the apprenticeship programme at UNW gave me the opportunity that I had been looking for.

“One of the main things I have enjoyed so far is getting to know different people, whether that be the other apprentices or colleagues from other departments. The firm is always making sure everyone is happy, and that they are getting the best out of them – which can also be said for how they treat their clients.

“I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship to others who want to continue to learn whilst earning money and gaining hands-on experience at the same time. It is a much more practical and logical way to pursue a career in finance. You gain experience while you achieve your qualifications which I think is the best way for an accountant.

“There’s a really great support system at UNW and I genuinely enjoy coming to work each day and learning new things. I appreciate how friendly and approachable all my colleagues are, especially as someone who came from a different country – I feel right at home at UNW.”