Felix and WCG Services

From a new start, to start giving back

When Felix arrived in Canada from Cameroon, he left behind everything he knew, including his business.

Fleeing a terrible war, he faced the enormous task of starting over in a new country.

“The biggest challenge for me is firstly to have an accommodation, and the second challenge was to know how to speak because my first language is French. And the third challenge was to have a job,” says Felix.

Back home, Felix had run his own food delivery company.

But in Canada, despite his skills and determination, the path wasn’t easy.

This began to change when WCG Services connected him with a service provider partner, a bilingual employment support organisation providing the foundation and tools that newcomers like Felix need to adapt to life and work in Canada.

There, he met Samar, a job developer who helped change the course of his journey.

“First, I need a good resume,” says Felix, “and to know which job I can do. The challenge is also to improve through my knowledge. Samar supported me in many aspects. Her coaching was wonderful.”

Samar helped Felix recognise the value of his transferable skills - his reliability, work ethic and experience.

Felix standing outside Osmow’s restaurant in Canada, where he began his new job with support from WCG Services and Collège Boréal.

Felix holding a Rookie of the Year award alongside a job developer from WCG Services, celebrating his success after starting a new career in Canada.

After refining his resume and practising mock interviews, she connected him with Osmow’s, a local food production employer, where he secured an interview, and the job.

After he started in his new role, the team at Collège Boréal continued to support him with practical help like transport support, as well as financial and emotional support during his first few months.

Felix made an immediate impact, and his hard work was recognised with the Rookie of the Year award by his employer.

“It was amazing for me,” Felix says, smiling.

“All the support I received helped me in my life. Today I have my own house. It’s very important for me to be free, and I need to work hard to help other people who need help.”

Felix sitting across from an employment advisor at WCG Services, receiving guidance on resume building and job opportunities.

Felix and a coworker in protective gear high-fiving inside a food production facility, showing teamwork and achievement in his new role.

For Samar, watching Felix thrive is the most rewarding part of her role.

“I’m so proud to see him in this kind of accomplishment and achievement. It’s my goal for all new immigrants. We are here for them. It’s not a job. It’s kind of humanity.”