One to watch – Taranjit Kaur Chana, senior client services manager, Home Group

Tell us about how you first came to work in housing.

At 22, I luckily landed on my feet with work and had my first job as a women’s development worker, supporting vulnerable young women in the community. I then went on to work for domestic abuse services and managing domestic abuse accommodation. It was there I entered the world of housing and have not looked back since.

I have worked with vulnerable women, children and young people, offenders, rough sleepers, and mental health and Care Quality Commission services.

What’s your proudest work moment or biggest achievement?

Being a mother. We were blessed with an IVF gem of a son four years ago. I am so proud of being a mother to a boy who is already becoming a true ally to women and a great role model to others.

One of my biggest achievements at work is driving the agenda for equality, diversity and inclusion. I am super proud of chairing the multicultural forums and strategically leading on inclusive practice. This shows I have allies at home in my personal life and that I’m developing allies at work in ensuring inclusivity for all.

And what has been your hardest moment?

The passing of my father was one of my hardest moments. It is such a pivotal moment in anyone’s life when they lose a parent. It made me realise that the most important things in life are loved ones.

My hardest professional moment – and most rewarding – is when I have been that one to support a customer through to their last breath. Supporting our customers to end of life is truly the hardest thing to do, but also the most honourable.

Who has been the most important person in your career – and why?

I have been blessed with several colleagues who have guided and mentored me. But currently there are two colleagues who are very important and dear to me.

Our head of service delivery, Claire Lees, has known me for over a decade. She keeps me grounded and champions me to be the best in my role. The other is Nusheen Hussain, our executive director of business development. With her mentoring, I have a new energy and drive in my own role and across the business.

If you could change one thing about the sector, what would it be?

If I could change one thing it would be housing options for young adults and vulnerable people from ethnically diverse communities.

I would like to see a more seamless approach for young and ethnic minority people to get on to the property ladder in socially appealing areas, which in the long term would enhance life opportunities, or for them to be able to transition into private rented accommodation when moving on from supported services.

More affordable housing is also needed so that we can ensure the next generation is set up in the best way possible for the future.