When Shreya joined the START Program, she was new to Canada, navigating an unfamiliar job market, and searching for both direction and a sense of community. What she found was far more impactful than she ever expected. From the moment she walked into the classroom, Shreya felt something shift. “It has been really lifechanging for me. This program really gave me the community and a sense of belonging that I really needed for my mental health and honestly didn’t think I would ever get”, Shreya said.
Building Confidence, Skills, and Community
As a newcomer Shreya faced both cultural and professional barriers. START helped her navigate each one with guidance, structure, and care. She shared, “Having recently moved to Canada, I wasn’t familiar with the job market and the culture here and the facilitators helped us understand the nuances of job search here.”
But what surprised her most was how deeply START supported her growth as a whole person. She added, “START has helped me grow intellectually, socially, and personally. I am so grateful to have this program support me in this phase of my life. It has been so helpful for my mental and physical health.”
Preparing for the Workforce
With structured workshops, one-on-one support, and targeted professional training, START helped Shreya gain the skills she needed to move forward with confidence. “I got the skills and tools I needed for my job search. Certifications also made such a huge help and give us an edge during our job search. Also, all the resources we got access to during the program, and all the resources we learned about have been incredibly helpful.”
Today, Shreya is moving forward with a clearer sense of direction, stronger professional skills, and the confidence to take her next steps in Canada’s workforce.