Aymara is a lone parent of a grown-up daughter and son and is expecting another child. After a successful 13-year career in architectural interior design, she faced redundancy, financial pressure, and the challenge of returning to work while preparing for a new baby. Through Smart Works’ coaching and dressing support, Aymara not only secured a senior leadership role but also reclaimed her confidence, demonstrating how practical help, belief, and emotional support can transform lives.

“I worked in architectural interior design for 13 years. I was a lone parent at the time and did my master’s part-time over six years. I worked my way up through different positions, but when the company created a leadership team, I wasn’t included. People with less experience were promoted, and I realised it was time to move on.”  

Aymara was headhunted as an associate director, which felt like a fresh start. “It was incredible, but after a year, I was made redundant. Market instability - Brexit, COVID, changing client priorities - meant four of our largest clients put huge projects on hold. Suddenly, invoices stopped, and the company couldn’t cover staff wages. It was mutual, but I left without a payout.” The financial pressure was immediate.

“Childcare cost me £1,400 a month - a full-time wage - and I had to go on Universal Credit while helping my sister set up her company. It wasn’t a lot of money, but it allowed me to get by while using my experience to support her.” The period was challenging.

‍“I used a food bank. There was no shame, you do what you need to survive. I had always been optimistic, but this was a real test.”  

When Aymara received a job interview opportunity, she realised she had no suitable clothing. “I remembered Smart Works from their fundraising fashion sales, where 100% of profits go to providing their services. I approached my job centre, and they referred me. From the moment I walked in, everyone had big smiles, made me feel comfortable. My coach listened to my background, reframed my experiences as strengths, and gave me key phrases to use in my interview.”  

The wardrobe session was transformative.

‍“They pulled out outfits I would never have chosen. I tried on wide-legged trousers I’d always thought made me look shorter - they actually elongated my legs. I felt like a million dollars. That moment gave me confidence I hadn’t felt in years.”

Aymara credits Smart Works with not just preparing her for an interview, but with giving her the tools to re-enter the workforce with certainty. “Walking into Smart Works, I felt supported, like I had a network of women who understood the challenges I faced. It was relief, reassurance, and motivation all at once.”  

Aymara now works as the Director of Business Development and Strategy at a successful interior design practice in Notting Hill. “I work with the founder to raise our profile in the industry. I bring experience from architecture, project management, and business development. It’s rewarding but challenging - especially around flexible working. I’m at a level where I can advocate for staff well-being, but there’s pushback. Flexibility isn’t always a priority for employers, yet it’s crucial for parents and carers.”  

Aymara reflects on the systemic barriers women face.

‍“Childcare costs, maternity leave, and the impact of motherhood make returning to work difficult. Smart Works equips women to navigate these challenges, not just by giving them confidence, but by helping them articulate their value to employers.”

Her insight extends beyond her own story: “Employers need to understand that offering decent maternity packages isn’t just a cost, it’s investing in staff who will stay and contribute. And as a society, we need to acknowledge that only a fraction of people can afford to have children comfortably. That’s discriminatory. The system should support all families, not just the privileged.”  

Looking back, Aymara sees both struggle and triumph. “Leaving my long-term role was my choice. I had been overlooked for promotion, and I needed to do something else. But being able to reflect, help my sister, and then re-enter the workforce with Smart Works’ support, walking into that interview confident, in clothes that made me feel incredible - was life-changing.”  Her journey illustrates resilience, resourcefulness, and the transformative power of support. “Smart Works doesn’t just provide clothing and coaching, it gives women the confidence to reclaim their careers, even after setbacks. That day I walked in, I felt that support instantly. It made all the difference.”

As Aymara approaches this new chapter, the reality of navigating work and motherhood comes back into sharp focus. It’s a reminder that support from employers shouldn’t stop at hiring, but extend through maternity, return-to-work, and every stage beyond.

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