"During the past two years (COVID-19), I was lost, confused and had mild depression. I gained a lot of weight and became de-motivated, but because I met Rosita at WorkBC Whalley Centre, I got the opportunity to see my new self again. She guided my career decision by analyzing my skills and background, which I couldn't see myself then. She allowed me to obtain the necessary training and credentials with the help of WorkBC funding. I am delighted to say that I completed the Career Development Practitioner Diploma program on July 27, 2022."

"I wanted to go to school to take Health Care Assistant program. But I wondered if I could shoulder the costs. Then, my friend told me about WorkBC and to call Ms. Rosita Bernardo. So, I finally got into the Health Care Assistant Program. During my training, I struggled to balance my household duties, make my assignments, review and prepare for exams. I often had very little sleep, and my stress and anxiety were very high. However, as I talked to Ms. Rosita, she was always very positive, guiding and encouraging me that I could do well and not doubt myself."

"I started this journey with WorkBC Whalley about 2 years ago and it was the best decision I could have ever made. I started by doing personality tests and it was a wonderful opportunity for me to learn so much about myself. WorkBC Whalley helped me research different colleges to pursue the LPN program again with regard to the cost of tuition, resources such as distance and the reputation of the school. WorkBC Whalley worked with me individually helping me understand the strengths I could use to get me through this program. "

I’m proud of how far I’ve come—I am officially a certified care aide. All the hard work pays off in the end, there are endless opportunities to get great jobs. I was offered immediate job at George Derby Center, where I spent my final practicum. I am thankful and happy; I am finally making a difference in people’s lives and I could not be happier.

"I was a live-in caregiver for a lovely woman with dementia for more than six years. Sadly, she passed away at the age of 97 last November of 2019, leaving me unemployed. Someone told me to call WorkBC because WorkBC has programs that might help me find another job or get into a skills training program. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the WorkBC Whalley office. Without your program, I could not have achieved this training on my own financially."

Even though I had years of experience as a live-in caregiver, I did not have the proper training and education in Canada that would enable me to work in facilities or for a company within my line of profession. They guided and counselled me as I applied for the appropriate WorkBC Centre Whalley program that could provide the proper learning, practice and literacy I needed in my field of work. This was life-changing for me. I now have a valid Certificate and Diploma; I was even one of the top students in my class. And I was also recently hired by a Nursing Home Facility which was my intended goal.

"When the pandemic hit, I got laid off from a job that I thought would position me towards becoming an educator. I was heartbroken. I did not know how and where to start looking for another opportunity. Then came WorkBC Whalley. I was able to register for an intensive Education Assistant Diploma Program. With the Education Assistant Diploma, I landed my new job. So I would like to extend my gratitude to the WorkBC organization."

"I decided to come to WorkBC as I heard that there is support available to find another job or free training. I could not afford to go back to school because I brought my family to Canada. I completed the package, and I was approved for tuition to attend the Health Care Assistant program at Drake Medox College. After receiving my certificate and transcript at the College, I  feel so proud. I graduated with honours."

"The cleaning company I had worked for had shut down and I did not have a place to return. In July 2020, Svitlana informed me that the Government is offering a free program for Health Care Aide. It was very difficult, but all this time Svitlana was in touch and supported me. While I was doing my practicum, I got a job offer even before I got a diploma."

"I am so grateful that I got all the support that I needed to succeed from WorkBC. I am no longer receiving income assistance and am happy to share that I have my own car. Please do not give up. If any challenges come your way, accept them and find your way towards a better opportunity. WorkBC will always help in making your dreams come true."