By Claudia Porras
As a teacher, Martha has dedicated her entire life to guiding others. She is a native of Nicaragua. She was a tutor in elementary school and a teacher in high school for adult education. She has worked for various agencies of the United Nations system in Nicaragua.
Four years ago, she had to start over in Canada. Although she had a good level of English, she felt that she needed to improve it in order to study. Additionally, she was adapting to a new life and needed advice.
Martha consulted a lawyer about her case. The lawyer suggested visiting the Mennonite New Life Centre to get help with Martha’s documents.
So, she did–she visited the Keele office. And she found a team of friendly professionals who helped her adjust to her new life in Toronto. Martha is grateful for the help given to her by the people in her new homeland. Now she is ready to help others.
Martha took the Helping Our Newcomers Prepare for Employment Success (HOPES) program which allowed her to move from feeling vulnerable to setting short- and long-term goals.
She was a professional in education strategy. She wanted to continue her career in the same field. HOPES advisers helped Martha figure out how to get there step by step.
To achieve her goal, Martha completed the Early Childhood Assistance Program at North American College. In addition, she has worked as a volunteer in the Care for Newcomer Children (CNC) childminding service at MNLCT and she completed a placement at Viva Kids Academy (KVA).
She also participated in MNLCT’s She-Covery program. This enhanced her professional profile. She received much advice on finding a job.
I got a lot of training. MNLCT specialists supported me in every program. I felt more and more comfortable. It was easier for me to communicate with others. Now I feel confident.”
Today, Martha is full of life and positivity. She is grateful for the help she has received from the people of her new homeland. Now she is ready to help others.
She currently works for Nicaragüenses en Canadá where she helps Nicaraguans who have recently arrived in Canada by providing them with information about organizations such as MNLCT.
