VR, Vocation, and Value:
The Future of Inclusive Employment
Today on Leap Forward, we welcome Ronnie Wilson, Founder and Chief Executive of First Step Trust, leading a pioneering social enterprise dedicated to transforming lives and fostering opportunity. Ronnie discusses using virtual reality to help people with mental health challenges gain confidence and skills in a safe environment, illustrating how innovation can remove systemic barriers to employment. He shares insights on the challenge of balancing their social mission with commercial necessity, which provides neutral pressure to generate income.
00:00
The episode's introduction
01:00
Explanation of First Step Trust’s mission to support those furthest from the labor market.
02:30
Discussion on using virtual reality (VR) to provide accessible, self-paced skills training.
05:00
Success stories of graduates moving into apprenticeships and technician roles.
08:00
Ronnie reflects on his "rough background" and his early days as a shop steward.
11:45
The early philosophy of the Trust: focusing on employment rather than clinical care.
14:45
Establishing core values based on treating others like loved ones.
19:15
Navigating the challenges and closures of garages during the COVID-19 pandemic.
21:30
Ronnie discusses leadership, accountability, and maintaining integrity in decisions.
25:30
Reflection on difficult commercial decisions versus social mission during the pandemic.
Address
UK
Cambridge House, Henry St.
Bath BA1 1BT, United Kingdom
USA
2950 Buskirk Ave, Suite 300
Walnut Creek, CA 94597
Korea (South)
Kyobo Building, 15th Floor, 1 Jongno,
Seoul 03154, Korea
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