Career Loans empowers Internationally Trained Individuals (ITI's) in Alberta and Saskatchewan to achieve their career goals. The program provides free one-on-one employment and financial counselling and micro loans to eligible applicants.
Career Loans is a virtual program and is especially designed to help newcomers who encounter barriers in having their credentials recognized, or face challenges in securing funding to get re-certified.
Eligible candidates are able to receive loans of $1,500 to $15,000, which can be used towards training, assessment, accreditation, exams, licensing and membership fees, and any required materials. Loan recipients have up to four years to pay off these low-interest loans, and will continue to receive personalized employment and financial counselling throughout.
On an individual basis, clients are also referred to local based service providers in Alberta and Saskatchewan for services that can enable them to fulfill their potential.
Launched in 2019, this program is funded by Economic and Social Development Canada (ESDC), and coordinated by Achēv.
Our Team
I have worked 20+ years in various non-profit, banking and NGO organisations in the Caribbean, UK and Canada. I have a Masters in International Business and Management from the University of Westminster (London, UK) and a BSc. in Professional Management from Nova Southeastern University in Florida, USA. I come with 15+ years of management experience in empowering staff, designing and implementing programs for newcomers and others in the under-served population. The reason I joined the non-profit sector is because it is the best platform for me to pursue my passion in making a positive impact on the economic empowerment for 2 key client groups; newcomers and start-up entrepreneurs.
Favorite motivational quote:
“To whom much is given, much is expected.”
I am a passionate digital marketer who enjoys designing and writing content. I have four years of experience in marketing and administration in my home country. My experience includes social media management, client relations, website management, and graphic design. As a newcomer to Canada, I am proud to be part of an organization that helps newcomers succeed in their careers. I am excited to contribute to this great team and play my part in making difference in the lives of others.
Favourite Quote:
“A dream is not that which you see while sleeping, it is something that does not let you sleep.” – Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam.
I am a pragmatic Career and Work Counsellor/coach. In my 20 years career in Social and Employment Services, I have established over 15,000 expert hours of coaching, mentoring, counselling, and supporting individuals of all diverse backgrounds. I have developed and co-developed workshops and programs in support of improving employability skills, life skills, personal development, financial stability and encouraging others in their career and life transformation. I have facilitated and coached over 1000 individuals – 1-on-1 and group – which has regenerated the lives of a diverse group of individuals, permanently altered their life trajectory throughout the Greater Toronto Area.
My life’s purpose, dedication, and commitment are to provide excellent service for all as I continue my growth in my life’s journey.
Favourite motivational quote:
An African Proverb – “If you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far, go together.”
I have been empowering Newcomers to realize their dreams in a new country that they called home for the past ten years, yet always were inspired by their resourcefulness and resilience in navigating their way to successful integration. My work is informed by staying current with the emerging practices as well as the lived experiences of my clients. I have been supporting immigrant families with children with their initial settlement needs, professional newcomers with credential evaluations and navigating the employment opportunities by alliance building with my Newcomer clients to co-create an individual action plan for successful integration. I am an advocate of inclusive economies that celebrates the contributions of newcomer professionals and creates a stronger Canada.
When I am not helping clients, I am immersed in the beauty of nature and am grateful for this amazing journey of life.
Favourite motivational quote:
"What you seek is seeking you”
