As a participant in the Y Opportunities program in the summer of 2024, I was at a point where I needed more than job postings. I needed confidence, direction, and consistent support as I navigated my return to work after vision loss. Through my time with the program, I worked closely with employment specialists, particularly Michelle, engaging in job coaching, resume and cover letter development, interview preparation, and mental health and employment readiness training.

What made Y Opportunities stand out was the level of individualized support. The near one-on-one approach gave me space to redefine my career goals, rebuild professional confidence, and actively reapply for roles that aligned with my skills and interests. When a position opened in my desired field, I had the tools, preparation, and encouragement to pursue it fully. With the support of the program, I tailored my application materials, prepared thoroughly for interviews, and ultimately secured the role.

I genuinely believe that without the structure, guidance, and confidence-building support provided through Y Opportunities, I may not have been successful in returning to meaningful employment at that time. The program played a pivotal role in helping me move from uncertainty to stability and growth.

Meet Baqir. Coming into the Y Opportunities program, he was hoping to secure his first Canadian work experience. With some vehicle decal and tinting experience, the program and Pro Tint Inc., a local company that specializes in vinyl vehicle graphics and window tinting, partnered on a 12 week wage subsidized position for Baqir. Over the course of the subsidy, Baqir has been committed to learning and contributing to the shop. He assists with designing and cutting vinyls, and works the front desk handling customer inquiries and providing pricing. According to the owner, Baqir’s efforts have resulted in greater workflow in the front office and relieved the workload of fellow staff. With Baqir and his skills such a great fit for the position and the shop ‘family’, the owner hired him on permanently following the end of the subsidy. Baqir loves the work and people and is thrilled to be staying on. He provided the following feedback about his experience at Pro Tint:

I had a great time working with Pro Tint. I really appreciate them for giving me a chance to show and improve my skills through practice. Pro Tint team members always made me feel welcomed and supported me to grow my knowledge and skills about customer service.

I got the chance to mainly work on my customer service skills by having the role of front desk. Some skills I improved are communication, teamwork, multitasking, problem solving, active listening, organization and adaptability. I also applied my graphic designing skills while working as a front desk clerk due to being involved in designing stickers for different purposes.

In the beginning, it was difficult for me to communicate with customers. I was hesitant to speak over the phone with customers because of my English fluency but now I feel confident talking to customers. I also learnt how to make invoices using the new software. 

Throughout the program, the Y team kept checking up on me at Pro Tint to keep track of my progress and to see if I needed further assistance. I deeply feel grateful to Y Team for their efforts in getting me the front desk position at Pro Tint and recommend this program to any newcomers who are struggling to find employment.