John* was an Ontario Works client and an active participant in the Partnership to Advance Youth Employment (PAYE) program. He had an international degree but completed his Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) in an effort to gain relevant Canadian qualifications.
PAYE is a joint initiative of the City, private sector employers and a network of community agencies providing youth 18-29 with one-on-one support, referrals to training and education, access to networking and mentoring opportunities and jobs with career potential.
John had several fields of interest which included customer service and I&T. He was prepared for a Starbucks recruitment event, however his limited English language skills made the interview process challenging. His PAYE coach encouraged him to practice his conversational English while continuing his job search.
Given his range of interests and potential, John was presented with an opportunity to apply to NPower Canada. NPower Canada launches youth into meaningful and rewarding I&T careers through job placement, industry-certified training and paid internships.
John was keen for the referral and was accepted into the program. Since starting with NPower Canada, he has developed confidence and a variety of skills, including the ability to practice his English.
I am really happy to tell you that I was accepted to NPower. Today, I had an interview with them and they told me that I was accepted. I told your name to them and that I was recommended by you and PAYE. I would like to say thank you very much from the bottom of my heart.
John
* name has been changed to maintain privacy