Over 160 representatives of corporations and community agencies and individuals showed their support for Working Skills Centre (WSC) at its 35th Anniversary Event, Pathways to Success: Immigrant Narratives, on Wednesday, October 23, 2013 at St. Lawrence Hall.
WSC celebrated 35 years of providing marginalized individuals, especially immigrant women, with the skills they need to enter the labour market and the confidence to achieve their dreams in Canada.
“Thirty-five years is a long time for a non-profit, charitable organization to be around,” said Honey Crossley, Executive Director. “We are very proud of our achievements throughout the years and are excited for our future and what lies ahead for Working Skills Centre clients.”
Guests networked and enjoyed appetizers and drinks during the Reception. The Dinner Celebration followed, and guests experienced a journey across continents through food and entertainment.
The Master of Ceremonies, Geetika Bhardwaj (media personality and previous WSC Board Member), led the celebration and engaged guests. Guests enjoyed international food from Afghanistan, Jamaica and Italy. Guests were entertained by international performances from musicians Nandita Dias Quartet and Anahit Koutsouzian and dance company Diva Diverse. Keynote speaker Asiya Hirji shared her experience as an immigration lawyer with guests, and WSC Alumni shared their stories and how WSC impacted their lives. Guests showed their support at the silent auction, raffle and 50/50 draw.
Guests also had the chance to learn about different cultures and share their heritage and experiences through intercultural displays and activities. This was a continuation of an Intercultural Interaction Event that took place in the afternoon.
The evening was made possible by sponsorships from our corporate partners who recognize the important work WSC does. Our Continental Sponsors are CIBC and LeaderLink. Our Metropolis Sponsors are RBC, SimplyHired, Salus Capital Partners, Brainstorm, Desjardins, Miller Thomson, and Big Apple Management and The Crossley Family.
The goal of the event, to raise $25,000 for the WSC Scholarship and Bursary Fund, was achieved.