Employment Access

History

In 1996, CultureLink started the Job Search Workshop (JSW) to provide newcomers with training in writing resumes and cover letters, interviewing skills, and labour market information and job search guidance in the Canadian labour market. This program is funded by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and operates in partnership with Midaynta Community Services, an agency offering programming to Somali immigrants. Midaynta is located on Yonge Street near Davisville (1992 Yonge Street, Suite 203, Toronto). The JSW program is offered every month at both locations. Over the years, we have become one of the leaders in newcomer employment assistance through the use of specialized occupational workshops and quality one-on-one career  assistance.

Workshops

The JSW workshops are broken down into two modules. Before taking these modules, clients go through a one-on-one assessment where eligibility is determined and needs are assessed. This assessment will help the client understand what their next employment steps should be. If clients are referred to Module 1 of the JSW, they complete a five-day workshop (16 hours), which is an occupational blueprint and concentrates on topics such as career exploration, development of a master resume, labour market research, and so forth. If after assessment clients go directly to Module 2, they attend a four-day workshop (14 hours) that covers areas such as writing targeted resumes, cover letter development, and interview skills. Occasionally, clients may need additional assistance before attending the workshops, so they are referred to other programs to better assist with their immediate needs. Both modules include one-on-one time with a Employment Specialist who guides and assists clients with their employment activities. After three months of attending the modules, there will be a follow-up to see how clients are doing with their employment goals.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the JSW program, clients have to be at a minimum of level 4 CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) proficiency, and be a Permanent Resident, Convention Refugee, or with an intent to land. Our JSW programs are regularly scheduled at both of our locations. To find out when the next JSW workshop is or to receive an employment assessment, phone 416-588-6288 (ext. 211, 213, or 215).