Cameron is working some of the UK's biggest music festivals with the support of the Persona Employment Pathways (PEP) team, earning the Star of the Weekend award from his team at Parklife 2026!
In the lead up to the festival, Cameron worked at some events with the same company, to prepare for one of the busiest weekends of the year. Cameron wants a practical job where he can stay active and be part of a team, so these opportunities were the perfect chance for him to build new skills and prepare for a fast-paced work environment.
Starting work in a new and busy setting was a big step, but with the right support from Zabeena and the Persona Employment Pathways team, he managed his anxious feelings so he could start each day with confidence.
When he got to Heaton Park, Cameron put on his staff wristband and got straight to work. As a barback, he was responsible for making sure the fridges stayed stocked, helping bars run efficiently so festival goers were served as quickly as possible.
On his first shift, his supervisor praised Cameron for his hard work and effort and by the end of the weekend he had been awarded Star of the Weekend.
Despite the long hours, Cameron was excited to return for a second day saying: “I can’t wait” to come back on Sunday.
He told us his favourite part of the weekend was travelling around the festival site with the operational manager in a buggy, checking all the bars had enough stock.
"My favourite thing about my job is working at different events. Each festival or event has its own atmosphere and vibe, which keeps things interesting and enjoyable. I think I would also enjoy working in the same place because it would help me build a better understanding of the area. It would also give me more confidence to travel independently. I am really enjoying my job. I get to meet and speak to a wide variety of people and the atmosphere is always changing, so the work never feels boring. Overall, it's a fun and exciting experience."
How have the PEP team helped you prepare for this second festival?
They've been incredibly supportive throughout my journey into work. Zabeena, my job coach, has always been approachable, listened to my concerns and provided guidance whenever I needed it. Her encouragement helped build my confidence and kept me motivated. Having that support made a big difference in helping me succeed.
Have you learnt anything new, working at these festivals?
I have got more confident speaking to new people, communicating with team members and adapting to different situations.My timekeeping has improved and I've learnt the importance of taking proper breaks. These jobs have shown me that I can be responsible and professional in a busy working environment. I enjoy working alongside others and it feels great when managers recognise my hard work.
I was surprisingly shocked that I was comfortable working at such large events because I am not usually a fan of big crowds. So far, I have not found anything particularly difficult or overwhelming. The noise and crowds have not bothered me as much as I expected they would.
Have you started doing anything differently as you've got more experience?
Yes, I made sure I was more organised before this event. I set reminders on my phone for all of my shifts so I wouldn't miss any important information, which helped me feel prepared and reduced any anxiety about getting to work on time. Being organised made everything run more smoothly.
What's on your wishlist for future events?
I would love the opportunity to work at Formula 1 events and the Isle of Wight Festival; they really interest me and would provide exciting new experiences. I am open to trying a variety of events and seeing where the opportunities take me.
What advice would you give someone who's nervous about starting a new job?
I would tell them to take a deep breath and give themselves a chance. I was unsure at first about what support the PEP team could offer, but they exceeded my expectations.
Would you recommend PEP to other people?
I would definitely recommend the PEP team to others because they are supportive, understanding, and genuinely want to help people succeed. Zabeena played a huge role in helping me gain confidence and find work opportunities.
Watch our video short of Cameron at Wythenshawe live here on YouTube.
Cameron's success shows what people can achieve with the support of our Persona Employment Pathways service, where adults living in Bury with learning disabilities or who are neurodivergent are supported to to learn new skills, get a qualification and grow in confidence while they get the experience they need to achieve their employment goals, whether they choose paid work or volunteering opportunities.
Find out more here.
