Candidate Graduation and Employer Celebration 2026
On Tuesday 14 July, we were delighted to celebrate our annual Candidate Graduation and Employer Partner Celebration, bringing together candidates, families, employer partners and Team Domenica staff for an evening of pride, recognition and celebration.
Hosted once again at Brighton College, the ceremony recognised the achievements of our second-year candidates as they graduated from our employability programmes and prepared for the next stage of their journey.
Class of 2026
Each graduate crossed the stage to receive their certificate, marking an important milestone and celebrating the dedication, resilience and determination they have shown throughout their time with Team Domenica.
Graduation is one of the highlights of our year. It is an opportunity to reflect on everything our candidates have achieved. From developing valuable workplace skills and growing in confidence, to building lasting friendships and securing paid employment. Their success demonstrates what is possible when young people with learning disabilities and autism are given the opportunities, support and belief they need to thrive.
These achievements are a testament not only to our graduates’ hard work, but also to the encouragement and commitment of their families, employer partners, tutors, job coaches and everyone who has supported them along the way.
“My proudest achievement is getting paid work at the ODEON”
Team Domenica candidate, Guy
Guy’s ambition was to work in a cinema. Through his supported internship he has turned that goal into a reality. Working three days a week, he has developed his confidence, communication skills and workplace experience whilst becoming a valued member of the team.
You can read Guy’s full Candidate Story HERE.
Importantly, the event does not mean it is the end of our candidate’s time with Team Domenica. Our graduates now move onto the Wrap Around Programme. A provision ensuring ongoing support inside and outside the workplace.
This support was emphasised by candidate Lucy and Sean (spoken by Joe), who gave insights into their journeys after attaining employment. They showed how our ongoing support helped them settle into work, keep connected and continue to thrive.
Championing inclusion
We were pleased to celebrate our wonderful employer partners, whose commitment to creating inclusive workplaces continues to open doors and change lives. Their support provides meaningful opportunities for our candidates while enriching their own organisations and helping to build more inclusive communities. We were lucky enough to hear from Nick Scarrat, from Caterlink who spoke about his experience with working with Team Domenica. They have provided supported internships, which has led to paid work for our candidate Teejay. Nick spoke about the benefits of working with Team Domenica and how much he has learned from working with Teejay.
We would also like to thank Brighton College for once again hosting this special event in such a welcoming setting, and everyone who joined us to celebrate the Class of 2026. Your continued support helps make evenings like this so memorable.
Congratulations
To our 17 graduates – congratulations! We are immensely proud of everything you have accomplished and cannot wait to see where your journeys take you next. You are fantastic ambassadors for Team Domenica, and we know you will continue to make a positive impact in your workplaces, communities and beyond.
Congratulations, Class of 2026! We wish you every success for the future!
