A Look Back at...
Eman- November 28, 2023 10:43 am/ A Look Back at My Time with the Immigrants Working Centre As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Immigrants Working Centre, I reflect on the impactful journey I've had over the past 7 years with this organization, recalling the memorable moments, experiences, and heartfelt wishes. One memory that stands out is the invaluable learning experience I had from Ines Rios, the past Executive Director of the Immigrants Working Centre. Ines's creativity, passion for supporting newcomers, and dedication to the betterment of the community were truly amazing. Her leadership and humility were inspiring, being a leader with both qualities is no easy feat. Memories with Clients: The most rewarding part of my time at the Immigrants Working Centre was witnessing the positive changes our services brought to our clients' lives. Helping Immigrants and newcomers skilled tradespeople navigate trade equivalency assessments and secure their trade licenses was not just a job; it was a celebration of human potential and the realization of dreams, and we can wittiness to many success stories. Through my various roles, from employment counsellor to Coordinator and Manager, I had the unique opportunity to develop and implement programs that were directly aligned with the evolving needs of our diverse clientele. This engagement allowed me to deeply understand their challenges, aspirations, and the transformative impact our programs had on their professional journeys. Experiences with Staff: It was a privilege working with dedicated and passionate staff, who were committed to excellence. Each member brought unique qualities and valuable experience, fostering an environment that encouraged personal and professional growth. The Immigrants Working Centre became more than an organization; it became a family. Community Connections: Building relationships within the community was fundamental to IWC's success. In my previous role as the Manager of Industry Relations, I was able to make connections with local businesses, industry leaders, and service providers. The relationships formed with service providers were amazing. Collaborating with various agencies and collectively supporting newcomers and immigrants strengthened the fabric of the community. These connections went beyond professional collaborations; they were bonds reflecting the true spirit of unity and inclusivity. Stakeholder Engagement: The network of stakeholders played a vital role in advancing the Immigrants Working Centre's mission. Collaborating with stakeholders extended the reach, amplified the impact, and facilitated lasting change. Through these partnerships, the Immigrants Working Centre continues to build a networked community, where collective efforts magnify the positive influence IWC can have on the lives they touch. The Immigrants Working Centre's legacy isn't just in the years behind but in the countless stories of resilience, empowerment, and success that continue to create together. Here's to 35 years of making a difference and to the promising years ahead, filled with growth, collaboration, and positive change.
