Sometimes All It Takes Is One Opportunity

Starting over in a new country can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to support your family, overcome language barriers, and find work at the same time. For many newcomers, the challenge isn’t a lack of skills or motivation, but the absence of someone willing to offer that first opportunity. For Magomed Dadaev, that opportunity came through WorkingNB.

A Critical Moment, Met with Support
When Magomed first connected with WorkingNB, he arrived with strong work experience and a clear desire to contribute. A skilled worker with a background in construction and hands-on labour, he was motivated to find employment. However, limited English made it difficult to secure employment, and time was critical as his family needed stability. What he needed most was a chance to prove himself.

From the beginning, communication was made possible through simple and accessible translation tools. These tools helped ensure that Magomed clearly understood expectations, options, and next steps, and later supported communication with an employer as well.

Through WorkingNB, Magomed was referred to Charlotte County Housing Council, Inc., a non-profit organization providing affordable housing across multiple communities. The employer Robert Tinker was open, flexible, and willing to focus on solutions rather than barriers.

An Employer Willing to Say Yes

Language barriers were never treated as a reason to hesitate. With tools like Google Translate, clear demonstrations, and patience on both sides, communication flowed smoothly. Magomed was initially paired with another employee to renovate a vacant apartment, giving him the opportunity to learn on the job while building confidence.

Over the course of his placement, he completed maintenance and repair work across 33 housing units in three communities. As the weeks passed, his skills strengthened, his confidence grew, and he became more comfortable navigating the Canadian workplace. At the same time, he was connected to language training to support his ongoing development.

Magomed’s contribution to the organization was meaningful, but the experience also marked an important turning point for him. The placement provided Canadian work experience, income stability, and a clearer vision for the future.

With ongoing support from WorkingNB and guidance from his employer, Magomed was able to clarify his career goals and build on the experience he gained during his placement. The Canadian work experience, employer references, and practical skills he developed strengthened his resume and increased his confidence in the job market. As a result, Magomed successfully secured new employment more closely aligned with his background and skills.

A Message to Newcomers and Employers
Magomed’s story shows what can happen when support meets opportunity.

To newcomers: You are not alone. There are programs, employers, and people who want to help you succeed - even when the path feels uncertain.

To employers: "Don’t let language or unfamiliarity hold you back. Staying open, being flexible, and offering one opportunity can change a life, and strengthen our communities", said Robert Tinker, the employer.

If you’re a newcomer looking for your next step, or an employer ready to make a difference, connect with WorkingNB and be part of building stronger futures.