Michelly’s story: A Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Talent
In a world marked by crises and uncertainty, the stories of displaced individuals often go unnoticed. Yet, their stories are a powerful reminder of the resilience and potential of those who overcome unimaginable challenges. Michelly, a nurse from Venezuela, embodies this spirit. Her journey from hardship to building a new life in Canada is a testament to perseverance and the transformative power of opportunity.
Dreams reimagined
Five years ago, Michelly left Venezuela for Peru, driven by the hope of a better life. A severe kidney infection and the scarcity of essential medicines in her home country fueled her decision. She sought not just survival but a chance to support her family and create a stable future.
Her passion for nursing was cultivated through years of dedicated studies and work in Venezuela, and remained a constant source of inspiration. She honed her skills in emergency care and occupational nursing, specifically supporting vulnerable populations including older adults and critically ill patients. Though Michelly had once aspired to be a surgeon, Venezuela’s political and economic turmoil forced her to pivot. Nursing became her calling—a field where she found purpose and the opportunity to serve others.
A Life-Changing Opportunity
Michelly’s life changed when she found Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB) through HIAS, a partner organization that supports refugees to access Canada’s Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP). Exploring TBB’s Talent Catalog, she discovered a platform to showcase her skills to employers worldwide. With the help of HIAS and TBB, Michelly crafted an impressive résumé and navigated the complex application process.
An interview with Schlegel Villages became the turning point in Michelly’s journey. The organization’s welcoming and professional approach made her feel valued and confident. They recognized her experience and dedication to patient care, resulting in a job offer that opened doors to a new chapter in her life.
Receiving the job offer was more than a professional milestone—it was the promise of stability and security. Through the EMPP, she was granted permanent residency in Canada, giving her and her family access to opportunities they could only dream of before.
Building a Future in Canada
Michelly is now working as a personal support worker in Canada, contributing to her community, gaining valuable work experience, and getting her credentials to become a nurse in Canada.
She views this opportunity not just as a career milestone but as a chance to positively represent her Venezuelan background.
TBB supports employers in recruiting nurses through the sometimes prolonged process of hiring and credential recognition. We're proud to partner with Care4Nurses and the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) to help our candidates like Michelly streamline and accelerate this journey.
For employers considering hiring through TBB, Michelly offers a powerful message:
“...displaced professionals bring a wealth of expertise, dedication, and cultural diversity to the workplace. They enrich their communities while helping address critical workforce shortages.”
Michelly’s journey is one of resilience and hope, showing the world what’s possible when displaced individuals are given a chance. From Venezuela to Peru, and now to Canada, she has turned challenges into opportunities and dreams into reality.
Her story reminds us of the immense potential within those who seek refuge. By embracing displaced talent mobility programs, employers can make a difference—not just for their organizations but for individuals and communities as well.
Through a partnership with TBB, your company can provide meaningful employment for refugees while addressing key labor shortages. Click here to learn more.
If you are a candidate from a displacement background looking for job opportunities internationally, register in the Talent Catalog here: tctalent.org