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Success Story

Alisha was having a tough time finding a job but she refused to give up.  Despite having no work experience, she kept searching for opportunities that would help her break into the workforce.  She began her job search in 2019 and when the pandemic hit, looking for work became even more challenging.  In October of 2022, Alisha learned about programs at YES that could help her secure a job and she connected with us. 

On her initial visit, Alisha learned about Employment Ontario’s Youth Job Connection program, which helps young people who face barriers to employment connect to work, training and education.  Alisha was an excellent candidate for the program.  She was excited to learn that she could start earning money right away because the program starts with 60 hours of paid pre-employment training.   During the training, Alisha’s Youth Worker Hailey Lyght, worked with her to  identify her skills and interests, develop a resume and learn valuable skills to carry with her in to the workplace.

Upon completion of the training, Alisha worked with Employment Relations team member, Tracy Laffin.  Tracy was thrilled to learn that Alisha was interested in the hospitality field.  The hospitality industry was hit hard by the pandemic.  According to Statistics Canada, employment in the accommodation and food services sector decreased by 38.9% between February 2020 and February 2021.  The industry is still recovering and there is a need for young people interested in entering the field.

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