Tanya Steyn, FDM Consultant/Delivery Lead (6-year career break)

Tanya had 20 years of experience in the financial software industry as an IT Infrastructure and Security Project Manager. Her work spanned complex technical environments, where she led cross-functional teams and delivered secure, scalable solutions.

She took two career breaks – the first to raise her daughter, during which she also ran a small arts and crafts business and led the PTA at her daughter’s schools in both South Africa and London. The second break came after relocating to London and was extended due to the Covid-19 pandemic. During this time, she remained active in her community, volunteering as a teaching assistant for sewing classes and continuing her PTA leadership.

Tanya missed the corporate world, the impact she made, the sense of purpose, and the human interaction. She also wanted to contribute financially to her household, so she began exploring opportunities to re-enter the workforce.  Despite applying for over 100 roles and facing repeated rejections, she remained determined. Many interviews focused heavily on her career break, which she found disheartening until she discovered FDM.

FDM’s Returners Programme offered the support and structure Tanya needed. She joined the Project Management pathway and, just before completing her training, she interviewed with Chanel for a technical role. Although she narrowly missed passing a required certification, she succeeded in the verbal assessment and was offered the position – proof that her experience and potential were recognised beyond test scores.

Tanya says: “Returning to work was both exhilarating and daunting. The first few months were a balancing act, but my skills quickly resurfaced. With FDM’s support, I navigated personal challenges and professional growth. I’ve since expanded my skill set, gaining experience in legal tech, PowerShell scripting, Microsoft Power Automate, and even stepping into a Scrum Master role.

Today, I feel more confident than ever. I’ve proven to myself that a career break doesn’t diminish your value – it can enrich it. My advice to others is to embrace every opportunity, lean on your support network, and trust that your skills are still relevant. With the right mindset and backing, a successful return is absolutely possible.”