Samuel’s Story: There is always going to be a brighter future if you keep going

Last December Samuel didn’t have a job – today he works for 3M. “This Christmas all of our kids will get gifts, and I am also certain that everyone will smile now…”

In December 2015 I completed my studies at Algoma University, then quickly moved back to live with my family here in London. I was struggling, sending my resumes everywhere in Canada looking for jobs. There was no feedback, no interview or even phone calls. During school my family’s main source of income was an OSAP loan. Then we moved onto Ontario Works. With a high level of personal and school debts, it was very painful that the government assistance was not enough to cover our cost of living.

I was referred to Pathways by my Ontario Works Case Worker. But I also found out about Pathways on the internet when I was always constantly searching for jobs and employment agencies in the London area. I will never forget the level of encouragement and caring that I received from the Pathways professionals. I took my training courses and sessions seriously – without missing any days going to the training centre. It was incredibly amazing to have such a professional agency.

During my training sessions, I developed a sense of confidence. More and more I knew that I was in the right place at the right time, and I was also very thankful that Ontario Works had such a connection with Pathways Skill Development. I was getting enormous coaching from all counsellors, but Bob and Sandi (Job Developers) were outstanding

Today Samuel Works at 3M

My job at 3M is huge and means a lot to my family. It is hard to explain to kids when parents aren’t working, or when a parent keeps saying “no” when a child asks for his/ her favourite toy or place to go. It goes to show how easily families can be transformed and happier when there are jobs in the area. We are so blessed that I have found a job close by. It keeps our family close and secure every day. Daddy is having dinner with everyone everyday – what a joy for the children and Viola!

What is Different this Christmas?

All of our kids will get gifts, and I am also certain that everyone will smile now. They have already gotten one thing they had asked me for – a Summer Vacation with their Grandma and cousins in Atlanta Georgia. Lots of places were visited and lots of pictures were sent back to me in Canada.

To my Wife Viola…

My wife Viola is a rock and the solid backbone gluing my family together. I could have never done things the way I envision for my family without her taking care of our three adorable children: Chiengkuach, Yom and Aleer. I owe her a big thank you and our success in life.

My Takeaway:

There is always going to be a brighter future if you keep going.

After I got my job, I always think of how young families struggle when there is scarcity of jobs in the area. Student debt is another challenging factor.

– Remember there must be another young family like yours going through an enormous amount of difficulties and stress looking for a job. My humble wish is that employment opportunities in the local area improve so that young people and young families can follow their dreams.