For a long time, I felt invisible. Despite my efforts—volunteering, networking, showing up—I couldn’t seem to break into the job market. Every rejection chipped away at me slowly, and after two years of trying, I began to wonder if I’d ever find a place where I truly belonged. I was stuck, and the weight of that reality was heavy.

But everything changed when I joined the REACH Employment Program. What started as a last-ditch effort quickly became a turning point in my life and a bright start to my career journey. This is the story of how I went from feeling overlooked and underestimated to finding purpose, community in a job that finally feels like mine.

Before REACH, I struggled to find a job for two years. I had no professional experience, and that seemed to be the only thing employers cared about. It didn’t matter how much I had volunteered or how many people I had networked with in high school; it felt like none of that mattered. I started to feel like all my hard work was pointless. I was stuck—and honestly, I didn’t think I stood a chance in the job market.

When I finally got a job, I celebrated prematurely, feeling like the struggle was finally over. However, I only worked a total of 9 hours a week, which was barely enough to sustain myself. As a student with no prior work experience, I felt like this was my only opportunity.

I thought this was as good as it gets, and that left me feeling isolated. I was the only person of colour there. My coworkers had formed their friend groups, and I was just… there. I didn’t have anyone to talk to. I felt like an oddball, like I didn’t belong, but I stayed, not because I loved it there or found fulfilment in the job, but because I had waited two years to get to this point.

Eventually, I left the job, and I joined REACH. It felt like I was back at square one, and that made me feel like I was failing. I started to feel stuck again. I came into the REACH program feeling defeated within myself.

However, my first day at the program surprised me. People who looked like me, who were in similar situations, surrounded me. It was so refreshing to have people I could relate to again. Suddenly, I did not feel as alone as I used to anymore.

I met Deanna at REACH. She was a stable, encouraging support system throughout the entire process. I came into REACH wanting to be a receptionist, and Deanna immediately saw this potential in me. She never second-guessed my abilities—she just believed in me.

I genuinely cannot be more grateful for the support I received from everyone during my time in the REACH program. They helped me hone my skills, reignite my spark, and open doors I never thought possible. They connected me with an understanding employer who believed in my abilities enough to keep me employed. Now, I’m working in an administrative role at BGC East Scarborough, managing the front desk at both the Galloway site and the MAAT Youth Centre.

Looking back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come—but I know I didn’t get here alone. The REACH Employment Program gave me more than just job skills; it provided me with confidence, a sense of community, and a renewed purpose. If you’re feeling stuck like I once did, I want you to know that there is a way forward—and you don’t have to walk it alone. I encourage anyone struggling to find meaningful work to consider programs like REACH. Sometimes, just one opportunity can change everything.

~ Kiwi, REACH Program Participant – now BGC East Scarborough Employee!