Huda’s Journey to a New Beginning in Fredericton

When Mrs Huda Aldarwish arrived in Canada in 2023, she carried with her years of experience, determination, and hope, but also fear and uncertainty. Like many newcomers, she knew her skills were strong, yet she did not know how to navigate a new system, a new workplace culture, and a new language environment.

Building Foundations Through Learning and Connection
Huda’s first step was learning. Within her first month, she enrolled in English classes at the Multicultural Association of Fredericton. After an assessment, she was placed directly into Level 6, the highest level. Although she had strong written English from her work as a psychologist and social worker in Syria and Lebanon, speaking confidently was difficult. Instead of rushing forward, she chose to stay in Level 6 for eight months to strengthen her confidence. “Language is the key,” Huda explains. “Without it, I cannot do my job, communicate with colleagues, or support families.”
 

At the Multicultural Association of Fredericton, Huda did more than study English - she listened. She learned from other newcomers, built relationships, and discovered the Skills Launch Adults Program, a WorkingNB supported initiative that helped her understand Canadian workplace culture and employment pathways.
 

Despite her qualifications, the job search was challenging. Huda applied for more than 250 jobs. Many applications went unanswered. Some days were filled with disappointment and tears, but she refused to stop trying. She walked into offices, asked questions, and continued networking. “I worked for 12 years before coming to Canada,” Huda says. “Staying home was very hard for me. I needed to keep going.”

Persistence, Support, and the Right Opportunity
Everything changed for Huda when she connected with WorkingNB. She shared her resume with an Employment Counsellor and clearly expressed her goal to work with families and children. With support from staff of the Career and Employment Center, she prepared for interviews and gained confidence through practice and guidance.
 

When she received an interview opportunity with the Family and Early Childhood West, her world was different. “They listened to me. They allowed me to speak about my experience. For the first time, I felt truly believed in.” Huda was offered a three-month work placement. Although she felt nervous about the temporary nature of the role, the Employment Counsellor encouraged her to take the opportunity. From her first day, she felt welcomed. Colleagues supported her, answered questions, and helped her grow step by step. She received training in cultural competency, workplace communication, and office skills - tools that strengthened her confidence daily. At the end of the placement, leadership made their decision: they wanted to keep her. Huda is deeply grateful to her employer, Executive Director Linda Dempsey-Nicholson: “From the very beginning, she believed in me and gave me the chance to start my career, a chance I had only dreamed of. She never hesitated for a moment to offer guidance, encouragement, or support. Meeting someone like her almost felt unreal, and I can honestly say she is the most wonderful manager I have ever encountered in my professional life. Her kindness, and mentorship have made a lasting impact on me, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity she gave me”.

Redefining Success and Belonging
Today, Huda continues her work with renewed contracts and growing confidence. She supports her family, cares for her two young children, and contributes meaningfully to her community. Many people told Huda that she would not find work in her field and that she should lower her expectations or rely on assistance. But Huda wanted something different. “I didn’t want to stay home she says. I want to work, be productive, and be part of Canadian society, for myself and for my children.” Her journey proves that with the right support, newcomers do not need to start from zero, they can build on the skills and experience they already have.

Your Next Step Starts Here
Huda’s story is not unique, but her success was made possible because she reached out, asked questions, and used the services available to her. If you are a newcomer feeling stuck, discouraged, or unsure where to begin, you do not have to do it alone. Our programs and services are here to help you learn, connect, and find meaningful employment.
 

Take the first step today. Reach out to WorkingNB for support and let us help you build your own success story.