Before immigrating to Canada from India, Priti was a science teacher. After arriving in Regina, she began working at a fast food restaurant and remained there for six years until she left due to her disability.

Priti was born with hip dysplasia. She can’t sit or stand for long periods of time. She also cannot walk long distances, so she alternates between sitting, standing, and walking. Priti was referred to Neil Squire by SaskAbilities (new window). She joined the Working Together program to enhance her employability skills and learn how to navigate the job market.

From the beginning, Priti was always appreciative of the help she received. She was positive and an absolute joy to be around. She started the program by updating her resume and learning how to tailor cover letters to the jobs she wanted to apply for.

Priti participated in career exploration and decided she wanted to work for an insurance company, or in an office setting as a receptionist, administrative assistant, or customer service representative.

Throughout the program, Priti always looked for ways to improve her skills. She learned how to search for jobs and network. She learned about proper interview etiquette and how to prepare for and structure her answers to behavioural interview questions using the STAR method.

“I know how to apply for jobs. Before, I never really applied for jobs. I didn’t have a lot of confidence to do it, so now I’m good at applying for jobs,” Priti says.

She also learned about wellness techniques and has continued to practice meditation and physical exercise so she can maintain her well-being when she starts work ⁠— one of Priti’s favourite parts of the program was listening to wellness presentations.

Priti is a lifelong learner. In class, she was always asking questions, participating, and learning as much as possible. Priti gained confidence from listening to other people’s stories ⁠— she thought that if other people could be successful and live with a disability, she could do the same.

Her hard-work, dedication, and positive attitude paid off when she was invited for an interview at a Saskatchewan non-profit. Priti impressed the Manager so much that despite her lack of experience in the field, she was offered a job as an Administrative Assistant.

She is responsible for answering phones, filing, drafting reports, and other administrative duties.

“Everything is going so well,” Priti shares. “I’m enjoying the work, everyone is very supportive here. Thank you for finding the best for me.”