Great Connections…
Posted Nov 20, 2015 04:25:59 AM.
Last Updated Nov 20, 2015 05:27:23 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Just a few months ago, I worked on a story about a new program being tried out here in Waterloo Region, connecting professional women with new Canadians looking to break into the work market here.
The idea? It’s a lot easier getting that job when you have the right network. It can come down to “who you know”.
Professional women moving into our region get connected with another woman in their field along…and as an added bonus, get some great introductions to other women. Grabbing that cup of coffee together really can make all the difference.
Joanne Young-Evans and Brenda Halloran were very early and strong supporters of the WR Connectors program.
Nora Whittington became the Den Mother.. matching and guiding us through this.
I jumped on board after interviewing Nora for a story on the program for 570News.
I was matched up just weeks later with Monami Bhattacharyya.
Here’s Monami’s story:
Before she and her husband moved to our region from India.. she was in the TV buisness. She’s worked for that country’s version of CNN. She has a strong background in writing.. and she was also a teacher. ( My pitch? Monami is awesome. Hire her!)
As she says.. many of her friends told her to work in a shop when they moved here. She wants to be in her field.
WR Connectors first pilot program has just wrapped up. Over 25 women matched. One already has found a job
from all of these connections. Success!
I’m thankful for friends like Susan Cook-Sheerer and Candi Harrington – they became part of our chain, saying Yes! instantly and sharing their knowledge, ideas and networks with Monami too.
Susan interviewed us this week.. welcoming us and sharing Monami’s job hunt on daytime on RogersTV.
Nora tells me they are now looking for support to roll out the program for another year.
( Hint- they’re hoping a great sponsor jumps on board!)
I’m signed up again…and I’ve gained a new friend and media sister in the process.
As the WRConnectors program says – “it’s a win-win for our whole community”.
I know something great is just around the corner for Monami.
Enjoy this weekend.
It’s a busy one for Santa (He’s the star in two parades locally!).. and maybe our snowshovels too!
lisa
