Veronica’s Journey to a New Career in Canada
April 29, 2024
Veronica, a highly educated immigrant from Peru, worked as an Administrative Assistant at the Peruvian Consulate from November 2015 to July 2020. She had to quit her job due to the impact of the pandemic and personal issues when she became pregnant. Veronica has both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Education and before moving to Canada, she spent 18 years as an Elementary School teacher in Peru. When trying to re-enter the workforce, she faced significant challenges: her education was not recognized, her English proficiency was low, and she was unsure of how to navigate the Canadian job market.
How WorkBC Helped Veronica
When Veronica relocated to Maple Ridge in August 2022, she was determined to find employment in the education sector. She sought the support of the Maple Ridge WorkBC Centre, where she was paired with a Career Coach. Together, they reviewed her foreign education and transferable skills, which led to the identification of a suitable career path as an Education Assistant. Veronica then enrolled in a Project-Based Labour Market Training (PBLMT) program at Discovery College, where she earned her Early Childhood Educator Assistant (ECE-A) certification.
After successfully completing her program, Veronica was referred to an Employment Placement Specialist at WorkBC. The specialist provided her with job coaching, mentoring, and extensive job search support. They also engaged in direct employer marketing to local daycare providers on her behalf. This proactive approach resulted in Veronica securing a placement with BC Christian Academy through the Wage Subsidy Program.
Steps to Success
Veronica’s determination, combined with the support from WorkBC, led to her successful integration into the Canadian education sector. The Wage Subsidy Program not only provided her with valuable work experience but also culminated in a full-time job offer from BC Christian Academy. As of today, Veronica remains employed with BC Christian Academy.
What Does Success Look Like Today?
For Veronica, success is about more than just finding a job; it’s about fulfilling her long-held dream of working in education in Canada. She is incredibly thankful for the opportunities provided by WorkBC, which enabled her to transition into a career that aligns with her passion and expertise.
Current Employment Situation
Veronica is now employed full-time with BC Christian Academy, where she continues to build on her 18 years of teaching experience from Peru. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the vital support offered by the Maple Ridge WorkBC Centre.
