Estefania Caceres

Sometimes, what starts as a class becomes a turning point in your life.

 

Last June, as spring turned to summer 2025, I completed the ELT (Pathways to Work: Enhanced Language Training) program at the Centre for Skills Development. When I first registered, I thought I was signing up for just another class. Instead, I found an experience far richer than I could have imagined—an experience that shaped my skills, my career vision, and even my sense of self. This program is a 12-week online course on Advanced Business Communications, Workplace Culture and Strategic Diplomacy.

 

Through the program, I strengthened my language and communication abilities, and I refined both my hard and soft skills—writing, reading, presenting, diplomacy, negotiation, empathy, research, time management, organization, problem-solving, and resilience. I also deepened my understanding of Canadian culture, from history and daily life to workplace norms.

But the most valuable part was the personal journey. I took time to reflect on my professional path in Canada and rediscover myself as both a human being and a professional. The program gave me tools to approach challenges and opportunities with clarity, confidence, and strategy in my job search and career development.

 

Last but not least, I had the privilege of meeting people who shared this journey, along with similar values and aspirations. I am deeply grateful for every connection I made—from my inspiring instructor, Marcella Corroeli Jager OCELT , and our dedicated career specialist, Ryan Thompson (a truly perfect duo), to my colleagues and classmates ( Anyela Wilchez (A talented and amazing photographer), Archana Kotwal (A wonderful storyteller and talented filmmaker), Bo LYU (A skillful, great communicator and collaborator and visionary realtor), Fatema Soleimani (A dedicated, patience and kindness early childhood educator) and all who shared their experience and part of their time with us). Together, we built an environment of respect, harmony, belonging, and even plenty of laughter.

 

I will always treasure the moments we shared and the milestones we reached as a group. I know we all have bright futures ahead because we proved our courage, potential, and commitment throughout this program. And now, in this beautiful country we call home, we are ready to pursue our dreams with determination and hope.