Darren is 25 years old and a recent graduate of the Neil Squire Society’s Employ-Ability Program and the adult education program at the Gabriel Dumont Institute in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan (new window). “Before that, I was unemployed and living on social assistance, which at the time I thought was better than going to school,” says Darren. “I did not realize that education is needed to succeed in life.”

“After being on welfare for a while, my self-esteem and confidence became low because I had no experience with employment. My friends and family told me about this [Employ-Ability] program and that it could help prepare me for the workforce,” he shares. “I feel a lot more confident, more determined and motivated in finding a job. While taking this course, I have learned a lot of different ways of approaching a job interview and a lot of characteristics I didn’t know I possessed. I have become more aware of my strengths and barriers due to this course.”

“I’d like to thank the Neil Squire Society for giving me my confidence back and also preparing me for my future career,” says Darren.

Darren recently secured employment with a commercial fishing agency in Pinehouse Lake. Congratulations, Darren!