In partnership with Red Bug Coaching and with the generous support of World Education Services (WES), Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB) Canada hosted two Women’s Coaching Circles. This initiative, designed to support women as they navigate the challenges of settling themselves and their families, into their new lives in Canada, brought together a small group of women who moved to Canada with their spouses through the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot. 

While principal applicants who secure jobs through TBB often have immediate opportunities for integration, their partners—usually women—can struggle to find their footing when they first arrive. Often, these women are highly educated professionals in their own right and face unique challenges in adapting to a new culture, finding their place in a new community, and reigniting their careers.

Our goal with the Women’s Coaching Circle was simple: create a safe and supportive space for women to work through these challenges together. Led by Tanya Smith - PCC, a professional coach and owner of Red Bug Coaching & Consulting Inc., each participant identified a personal hurdle—whether related to career, integration, or personal growth—that they wanted to work through with the group. Over the course of multiple sessions, these women found ways to confront these obstacles and also built lasting relationships that will continue to support them beyond the coaching sessions.

One participant shared:

“It was a great time to meet wonderful women to support and help each other to pass our difficulties. I learned that it’s necessary to forgive myself and strive to do my best next time. Through the Women's Coaching Circle, I came to the conclusion that the source of peace comes from within the person.”

The impact of the coaching circle was profound. There’s been a tangible shift in the women’s confidence and outlook after each session. "It helped them to strengthen that small community, and it was nice to see that," Tanya reflected. Beyond individual growth, the circle fostered a sense that participants were not alone in their challenges, and the women continued to support each other between sessions.

We are deeply grateful to WES for their financial support and to Tanya Smith for generously volunteering her time and expertise. The success of the Women’s Coaching Circle underscores the importance of providing holistic support for our candidates and their families, to set everyone up for success.

Are you interested in learning more about TBB’s programs and how you can get involved? Follow us on social media for updates, and explore how we help qualified refugees to relocate on the basis of their skills and rebuild their lives.