Humans of Skills for Change: Janvier Tuombe
1. Tell us a bit about yourself
I am originally from Ottawa where I attended Carleton University to study International Business and International Marketing and Trade. I have worked in the non-profit sector for over five years, specializing in diversity and inclusion in the tech and business sectors. After moving to Toronto during peak COVID in April 2020, I was able to settle in, get to know the city and eventually start with Skills for Change where I now lead a program that is focused on supporting Black Canadians into dismantling existing systemic racism.
2. How did you get involved with Skills for Change?
Having worked in the non-profit sector for several years, Skills for Change was an organization that I had heard about especially in the amazing work they do to support refugees and newcomers. When I saw the opportunity for my position, I knew that I needed to apply.
3. Is there a particular moment or memory that stands out for you?
When I first started in non-profit, I was working on a program that supported newcomers in their transition moving to Canada to prepare them to join the Canadian job market. There was one individual that I supported in building their resume and helping them find a job which they eventually secured very soon after landing in Canada. They ended up surprising me at the office to thank me for the work we did which was amazing but more importantly I got to see first hand the value of the work we did to support newcomers to Canada.
4. What are you most proud of in life?
I am most proud of supporting my friends and family and achieving my goal of working in non-profit to help people in my community.
5. What inspires you?
The ability to watch those around work on self-improvement and become the best versions of themselves.
6. What’s the best advice you’ve received in life?
When I was much younger someone shared the quote, “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul” which really stuck with me. It stands as a reminder that all I can do is my best and the rest will fall into place as it is meant to be.
7. Can you tell us something interesting about yourself that not many people know of?
I have always loved to draw and paint.
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