At just 16 years old, Aras came to the START Program with determination and a clear goal: to get a job, save for a car, and finish high school strong.
Living with ADHD and having previously left the traditional school system, Aras was attending an alternative school when he connected with START. He had also faced some serious challenges, including legal trouble involving indictable offences. But Aras was ready to turn things around.
As “determined, tenacious, and a good communicator,” Aras sought a path forward. He already had some volunteer experience, coaching soccer at his church’s youth camp, and he joined the START Program eager to build on that momentum.
Through the program, Aras earned certifications, developed a strong resume, and sharpened his job search and interview skills. He stayed focused and completed the program in mid-February.
Shortly after graduation, Aras secured a job at Superstore, where he has worked ever since. He has been steadily saving money and is now just weeks away from a major milestone: buying his first car. Aras is excited about the future, with his road test scheduled for later this spring.
When asked about the impact of the START Program, Aras doesn’t hold back: “It heavily impacted my life in such a positive way. It gave me mental clarity and helped steer me in the right direction.” He encourages others to take the leap: “If you don’t apply for this program—that’s your loss!”
Aras’s journey is a powerful reminder that with the right support, young people can overcome setbacks, rediscover their potential, and take real steps toward a brighter future. We’re proud to have walked alongside him in this chapter of his story. We can’t wait to see what he does next.
If you are interested in learning more about the START Employment Skills Training Program, visit: https://worklink.bc.ca/programs/start-program/