Ottawa puts $4.4M into Saint John education and employment program for youth

Listen to Shawnee Sue share her journey and what she learned from participating in women's empowerment programming.

I did the Power Up program in 2015. I was just starting out on a journey to know what abilities I had.  It wasn’t easy but it was worth it.  Power Up definitely helped with my confidence and I met several people who would be part of my life in the days to come, helping me become the best person I can be. 

At just 17 years old, Taya knew exactly what he wanted: to work. While finishing his high school diploma, he was already thinking ahead, focused on building a future for himself. College did not feel like an option due to financial barriers, but that did not stop him from setting a clear goal. He wanted to enter the workforce and start building his independence. When a guest speaker from SJLE, Youth Workforce Coach Kassandra Goudreau, visited his learning site, Taya listened closely. After the presentation, he made the decision that would shape his path. He took her card and reached out. From there, Taya got to work. He took the steps needed to prepare himself for employment with support from Kassandra; securing key documents, opening a bank account, and building a resume and cover letter. In Taya’s words, she helped with “everything that a parent should do.” Along the way, he leaned into the support when needed, but it was his initiative and follow-through that kept things moving forward. “Having her (Kassandra) believe in me felt good,” Taya shared, “I never had someone believe in me like her.” That belief helped reinforce what Taya was already starting to see in himself. Soon, an opportunity emerged through SJLE’s partnership with the Insulators Union: a 12-week pre-apprenticeship training program designed to prepare participants for direct entry into the trades. After hearing about this, Taya did not hesitate. He attended the information session, learned everything he could, and committed himself to the process. Determined to make it happen, Taya earned his spot in the 12-week pre-apprenticeship training program. He showed up, put in the work, and completed the program, building both skills and confidence along the way. Today, more than six months later, Taya is part of the Heat & Frost Insulators Union 131. He now has his drivers license and bought his very own car! He continues to set goals for himself and take steps forward, including earning his driver’s license. Each step reflects his commitment to building a strong, independent future.