Since arriving in Scotland as a 16-year-old from Zimbabwe in December 2022, Blessing Astoni has adapted to a new country, recognised the learning environment in which he thrives, created his own pathway into construction and overcome setbacks with resilience and positivity.

Less than four years later, Blessing is a qualified construction operative, has successfully completed a Modern Apprenticeship in General Construction Operations at SCQF Level 5 and is in full-time employment with Rainton Construction Scotland, contributing to the redevelopment of Glasgow’s public spaces.

Using qualifications to broaden knowledge and support personal development

Blessing attended Lenzie Academy but recognised that the traditional school curriculum was not allowing him to develop his strengths or explore his ambition to work in construction. He had always wanted a practical career where he could work with his hands, initially considering joinery and carpentry before developing a particular interest in civil engineering and groundworks.

Rather than becoming disengaged, Blessing took responsibility for finding an alternative route. He independently applied to the Tigers East Dunbartonshire Pre-Apprenticeship Programme, beginning in July 2024.

He immediately stood out through exceptional attendance, timekeeping, positivity and his willingness to help others and go beyond what was expected. His practical ability soon matched his attitude. Blessing achieved a perfect 50/50 score in his CSCS test on his first attempt, demonstrating his commitment to learning and understanding the standards required within the construction industry.

He subsequently progressed into employment through the Tigers and Morgan Sindall Joint Venture Programme in January 2025, gaining experience with employers including MPACT and Howe Interiors. These early placements presented challenges as he found his feet in the construction sector.

Rather than allowing setbacks to discourage him, Blessing reflected on his experiences, identified where he could improve and used them to strengthen his skills and approach. His determination was recognised through two Apprentice of the Month awards, followed by Apprentice of the Year within the Joint Venture Programme.

Blessing then progressed to a Modern Apprenticeship in General Construction Operations at SCQF Level 5. This allowed him to transform his practical strengths into recognised skills while developing his technical knowledge through real workplace experience. He successfully completed his apprenticeship in January 2026 and achieved his Skilled Worker CSCS card.

Determination, responsibility and experiential learning

At Rainton Construction Scotland, Blessing has developed far more than technical skills. He has developed a strong sense of responsibility, ownership and pride in his work.

He has embraced the opportunity to be involved experientially in live construction projects, understanding how his contribution fits into the wider process. He is keen to understand what is required before work begins, how tasks should be planned and prepared, how they are delivered safely and accurately, and what is required to achieve a quality finished result.

Blessing has developed practical experience in laying high-end granite blocks, identifying existing services, installing drainage and cable ducting, laying and finishing concrete, working to project timelines and maintaining safe working practices. Importantly, he takes pride in seeing work through from preparation to completion rather than simply completing individual tasks.

When something does not go to plan, Blessing does not step back. He asks questions, learns from experienced colleagues, reassesses his approach and perseveres until the job is completed properly. His determination to see things through has helped him develop confidence and independence while earning the trust of those around him.

His 100% attendance throughout his training and early employment is perhaps the clearest demonstration of his commitment. He has consistently been punctual, reliable and willing to learn, setting high expectations for himself.

Blessing is now undertaking civil engineering work on the redevelopment of George Square in Glasgow. Being part of such a high-profile public realm project has given him the opportunity to see how individual construction activities combine to create something that will benefit thousands of people. He takes genuine pride in knowing that his work will form part of a lasting improvement to the city.

Inspiring others and overcoming adversity

Blessing’s achievements are particularly significant given the scale of change he has experienced. Moving from Zimbabwe to Scotland as a teenager meant adapting to a new country, education system, culture and working environment.

Despite these challenges, he has consistently demonstrated maturity, resilience and independence. His story provides an example to other young people who may not thrive within a traditional educational pathway. He demonstrates that qualifications can provide an alternative route to success and that practical strengths, determination and a willingness to learn can lead to a rewarding career.

Brad McReynolds, Tigers mentor/assessor, described Blessing as demonstrating “a fantastic work ethic” and said he approached challenges “with integrity and confidence”.

Craig McCarron, another mentor and assessor, said: “Blessing does everything with a smile. He has a quiet determination to succeed and do well for himself and his family.”

Impact on employer and community

Blessing has made a significant impact on his employer. His friendly and approachable manner has helped him build strong relationships with colleagues, while his reliability, enthusiasm and willingness to learn have made him a dependable member of the team.

Gary Blair, Rainton contracts manager, describes Blessing as a “valued member of the team”, highlighting his reliability, work ethic, enthusiasm and eagerness to develop. He considers Blessing “a real asset to Rainton Scotland”.

His impact also extends beyond the workplace. His qualification has enabled him to contribute directly to projects that improve Glasgow’s public spaces and infrastructure, giving him a tangible connection to the community in which he now lives.

Future progression

Blessing sees his qualification as a foundation rather than a finishing point. His ambition is to continue progressing within civil engineering and construction, developing his technical skills and taking on greater responsibility for projects.

His employment has also given him greater independence. He can now contribute at home, plan for his future and work towards passing his driving test, increasing his mobility and future opportunities.

From choosing his own pathway as a school pupil to becoming a skilled construction worker, Blessing has demonstrated initiative, resilience, responsibility, humility and an outstanding commitment to learning.

His journey captures the impact of Qualifications Scotland qualifications: they have not simply given Blessing a certificate, but have given him direction, purpose, confidence, recognised skills and the opportunity to build a future of his own. Most importantly, he is now using those skills to contribute to his employer and the wider community, while inspiring others through what he has achieved.