Healthy Living • Y Stories • YMCA Newcomer Programs • YMCA Volunteers
Newcomer learns to embrace change and discovers new-found confidence through YMCA Immigrant Services
14 January 2020 - by Sarah Cowan
Halimat experienced major culture shock when she arrived in Canada from Nigeria. Everything that had once been familiar was gone, and she wondered how she could achieve her goal of finding an accounting job with so many obstacles in her way.
Opening the door to life-changing opportunities
After a challenging first month in Canada, Halimat’s husband recommended she book an appointment at the YMCA of Greater Toronto’s Language Assessment and Referral Services. He thought it would help her strengthen her English skills while she looked for work.
She had such a positive experience, she decided to start volunteering at the centre.
Gaining practical skills and experience as a volunteer
Volunteering at the YMCA has gone a long way in boosting Halimat’s communication skills and confidence. The role has also helped her prepare for the workforce and add practical skills to her resume. Not to mention, she says the friendly staff and clients at the centre make her feel right at home.
Preparing for the workforce through the ELT program
With her new-found confidence, Halimat was determined to find an accounting job. Staff at the YMCA’s Language Assessment and Referral Services recommended she sign up for the Enhanced Language Training (ELT) program: an 8-week class that helps immigrants strengthen their English and prepare for the Canadian workforce.
It certainly prepared Halimat. She secured a work placement straight out of the program. And she landed that full-time accounting job she’d been striving for in August 2019.
Are you new to Canada like Halimat? Improve your English or French language skills by booking an appointment at the YMCA’s Language Assessment and Referral Services.
Opening the door to life-changing opportunities
After a challenging first month in Canada, Halimat’s husband recommended she book an appointment at the YMCA of Greater Toronto’s Language Assessment and Referral Services. He thought it would help her strengthen her English skills while she looked for work.
She had such a positive experience, she decided to start volunteering at the centre.
Gaining practical skills and experience as a volunteer
Volunteering at the YMCA has gone a long way in boosting Halimat’s communication skills and confidence. The role has also helped her prepare for the workforce and add practical skills to her resume. Not to mention, she says the friendly staff and clients at the centre make her feel right at home.
“I wouldn’t be who I am and where I am today, within this short amount of time, without the support of everyone at the YMCA,” says Halimat.
Preparing for the workforce through the ELT program
With her new-found confidence, Halimat was determined to find an accounting job. Staff at the YMCA’s Language Assessment and Referral Services recommended she sign up for the Enhanced Language Training (ELT) program: an 8-week class that helps immigrants strengthen their English and prepare for the Canadian workforce.
It certainly prepared Halimat. She secured a work placement straight out of the program. And she landed that full-time accounting job she’d been striving for in August 2019.
Are you new to Canada like Halimat? Improve your English or French language skills by booking an appointment at the YMCA’s Language Assessment and Referral Services.
