Guidance and Training Lead to a Meaningful Career in Education
February 5, 2026
When Prathibha Nair arrived in Canada, she brought with her more than seven years of international experience in creative fashion design and merchandising, along with experience as a lecturer and freelance design consultant. Despite her strong background, Prathibha found it difficult to secure stable employment in Canada and was limited to casual work as a teaching assistant and hand embroidery instructor. The seasonal nature of the fashion industry, combined with financial constraints and the need for affordable childcare as a mother of two, made it challenging for her to pursue further training or long-term employment opportunities
Seeking support and direction, Prathibha connected with the Maple Ridge WorkBC Centre, where she was welcomed by a dedicated team committed to helping her identify a sustainable and fulfilling career path. Through career assessment workshops and one-on-one coaching with her Career Coach, Jessie, Prathibha explored her transferable skills and reviewed local labour market information. This process helped her identify the Educational Assistant (EA) occupation as a strong fit—an in-demand role that aligned with both her professional background and personal experience as a parent
With guidance from WorkBC staff, Prathibha researched training options and selected the EA program at Ridge Meadows College, chosen for its accessibility, proximity to her home, and hands-on practicum component. Recognizing that childcare and financial barriers could prevent her from completing the program, the WorkBC Centre worked closely with Prathibha to put essential supports in place. She was supported in applying for the Affordable Child Care Benefit, and WorkBC covered remaining childcare costs, as well as tuition, textbooks, technology, library fees, and other training-related expenses. To ensure she could fully participate in her studies, the Centre also provided her with a laptop
In addition to financial assistance, Prathibha benefited from in-house workshops, including Skills for Success, where she strengthened essential academic and workplace skills. She also received hands-on support with resume development, cover letter writing, and interview preparation, helping her build confidence and readiness for employment
After completing her program, Prathibha continued to receive individualized support from her Career Coach, including mock interviews and assistance with her application to School District 42. Once she secured employment, the WorkBC Client Success Team remained engaged, providing follow-up support and connecting her with complimentary counselling services to support her well-being and successful transition into the workforce
In September, Prathibha began working as an Education Assistant with School District 42, earning $34 per hour in a 30-hour-per-week position. She now enjoys stable, meaningful employment that allows her to contribute to her community while maintaining a healthy work–life balance for her family.
Reflecting on her experience, Prathibha shared:
“I am eternally grateful to WorkBC, because of whom I now have a stable career. It feels wonderful to be financially independent, to make a positive impact in the lives of the students I work with, and to be there for my kids when they are home. Thank you, WorkBC, for providing me with the tools to succeed and create a brighter future for myself, my family, and all the wonderful children I get to work with every day.”
