Defeating dyspraxia – why Alex dares to dream

Negotiating school years and then trying to find work wasn’t easy for Alex, thanks to a life-long battle with dyspraxia Playing video games felt more comfortable because it neutralised some of the challenges Alex’s condition.

As Arthur Morgan in Rockstars’ Red Dead Redemption 2 for example, Alex could also choose to be that loveable rogue or an outright villain in pretty much the same way as any other gamer.

Playing games introduced Alex to Game Academy and the bootcamps which guide people like him into training and personal development for work.

In January, Alex signed up for a Game Academy course. He was unemployed. Within months of the Bootcamp he has a new job and a work plan for the coming few years.

He said: “The Bootcamp has changed me as a person. Before, I didn’t really see games as something which could be useful. It’s like dreaming you want to be a footballer and suddenly realising that it’s not impossible.”

Help with his CV and a realisation that he has an innate ability for public speaking and presentation has unlocked Alex’s new role as a customer service representative with Virgin Money.

But it has also helped Alex with his long-term ambition - to pursue a career in the games industry, perhaps even in a role he previously knew little or nothing about.

“From the very first day, everyone was so passionate and fully-engaged with the courses. I suddenly felt that I had found where I really belong. It was great fun but I also learned that I could express myself.”

Alongside his new job, the course has seen Alex starting to present You Tube videos produced by friends.

Like to know more? You can read more about Alex’s story HERE but why not have a look at the Game Academy Discord channel. You can also join the Game Academy community here.