Donya joined our Creative Employment Options program knowing her dream job was to work with children. She had previously attempted the Early Childhood Educator (ECE) program, but due to her disability, she found it difficult to complete assignments and exams.

When Donya immigrated from Ethiopia to Regina in 2008, her reading difficulties were initially attributed to a language barrier. However, when she was tested again in 2016, she was diagnosed with dyslexia. She finds that letters on a page look like scribbles, and relies on dictation software and other people writing for her to avoid difficulties. She also experiences severe dizzy spells and sometimes needs to hold onto something to stabilize herself.

Working one on one with her Job Developer, Donya updated her resume and learned how to write cover letters tailored to specific positions. Donya attended mock interview practices with her Career Facilitator and learned how to answer interview questions in a concise manner.

Throughout this process, she gained confidence in her ability to share her knowledge with interviewers. She also learned how to disclose her disability and advocate for accommodations for herself.

Donya was determined to pursue her dream of becoming an ECE.

In March, she landed an interview at a local private school. Donya’s bright and bubbly personality made it easy to connect with anyone who met her, and she received an offer for the position only a few days after the interview.

The school agreed to sponsor her through the ECEprogram, and with help from Neil Squire, she obtained the assistive technology supports she needs to succeed. Donya is grateful for the support she received from our Creative Employment Options team as she pursued her ambitions to work with children.