Learner of the Year 2025 - From Graduate to Freight Forwarder
Velichka Halkalieva, our Learner of the Year, is completing the Level 3 International Freight Forwarding Specialist Apprenticeship with Momentous Learning, while working as a Freight Forwarder at Sitra UK Ltd. Her story reflects the power of employer-led apprenticeships to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world performance.
From Graduate to Freight Forwarder: How an Apprenticeship Built Confidence, Capability and Real Workplace Impact
Every year, we meet learners whose journeys remind us why apprenticeships matter.
This year, Velichka stood out for her dedication, professionalism and impact in the workplace.
Choosing an Apprenticeship After University
After completing her bachelor’s degree, Velichka faced a challenge familiar to many graduates: finding a role that truly allowed her to apply her knowledge, develop practical skills and build confidence in a professional environment.
Rather than following a traditional route, she chose the Level 3 International Freight Forwarding Specialist apprenticeship.
Within just ten months, the difference was clear. Working alongside experienced professionals, Velichka gained both technical knowledge and the confidence to apply it day to day.
“The confidence I’ve built while collaborating with professionals with more than ten years’ experience has been invaluable. I only wish I’d applied for an apprenticeship earlier.”
The Apprenticeship Experience at Momentous Learning
Throughout her apprenticeship, Velichka has balanced structured learning with hands-on work in a fast-paced logistics environment.
She highlights the design of the programme and the support from tutors as key factors in her progress:
“The study programme has been thoughtfully designed to give us the essential knowledge we need for our daily tasks. Everything is presented in a clear, easy-to-understand way, which makes it easier to apply what we learn at work.”
Tutor support played a crucial role in translating theory into practice, helping her grow consistently while staying confident and motivated.
Real Impact in the Workplace
From an employer perspective, the apprenticeship has delivered tangible results.
Michael Candela-Reyes, General Manager at Sitra UK Ltd, describes Velichka’s progression as both natural and impactful:
“Since Veli joined the team, it has been great to see her ambition and attitude towards work and learning. She is learning at a strong pace and has become a vital member of our team.”
Her contribution quickly went beyond learning into measurable operational value:
“Veli has improved the efficiency of certain tasks within the Operations department, while providing valuable support in key customer-focused areas. She engages extremely well with our customer-led approach.”
Her integration into the business was seamless, something Michael attributes to both her mindset and the structure of the apprenticeship:
“Her integration has been easy to manage and is a key part of her success here at Sitra. She has a bright future within our department and across the wider group.”
The Role of Tutor Support and Programme Design
The partnership between learner, tutor and employer is at the heart of successful apprenticeship delivery. Michael specifically highlights the impact of Velichka’s relationship with her tutor:
“Veli has an amazingly positive relationship with her tutor, Gabby. You can see this reflected directly in her positive workplace results.”
He also emphasises how the programme supports both learning and business outcomes:
“The topics covered and guidance provided allow learners to combine practical and theoretical training effectively. This approach helps students flourish in real work settings.”
A Recommendation for Employers
From an employer standpoint, the value of the apprenticeship goes beyond compliance or funding. It directly supports workforce development and long-term talent retention.
“I highly recommend that employers embrace Momentous Learning. The way the coursework and modules are structured, combined with the level of learner support, delivers real business benefits. The programme helps guide the apprentice into their natural role following completion, creating positive, lasting impact for both the individual and the organisation.”
Looking Ahead: Career Progression and Lifelong Learning
Velichka’s ambitions extend well beyond completing her apprenticeship. She plans to continue growing within Sitra while expanding her expertise further:
“I want to keep learning in the field, grow within the company and eventually pursue a master’s degree in logistics so I can support the team even more effectively.”
Her advice to others considering an apprenticeship is simple:
“Apply as soon as you can. It might feel intimidating at first, but it can open the door to a career where you feel valued, supported and fulfilled.”
Why This Case Study Matters
Velichka’s journey demonstrates how a Level 3 International Freight Forwarding Apprenticeship can:
Support graduates transitioning into skilled roles
Deliver immediate value to employers
Build confidence, capability and long-term career pathways
Align learning with real operational needs
It is a powerful example of how apprenticeships work when learners, employers and training providers collaborate closely.
Interested in the Level 3 International Freight Forwarding Apprenticeship?
Discover how Momentous Learning supports learners and employers through high-quality, employer-led apprenticeship delivery.
