Meet Lesley, our Building Better Futures Program Manager!
Meet Lesley, a vital part of our EMBERS Training team!
How did you discover EMBERS?
I originally discovered EMBERS when working with the recovery population around 2019 as there were many individuals that worked with EMBERS and had many great things to say about the benefits and opportunities offered.
What was your career journey within EMBERS?
I have had an incredible journey within EMBERS. It all began when I started as a temporary staffing worker, working a couple of shifts in 2019. In 2021, I took a position in the Fraser Valley office, providing admin support for two days a week. This role quickly expanded to three days a week, where I had the opportunity to work with Lynne on the training team focusing on the Learn and Earn program. In addition to my training team responsibilities, I also dedicated two days to working at EMBERS Sanctuary Housing in the Fraser Valley. As I progressed within the organization, I seized the opportunity to join the Building Better Futures program full-time as the manager. To prepare for this role, I pursued my career development practitioner certification by attending school in the evenings. In August of 2023, I officially assumed the position I currently hold — Program Manager of Building Better Futures. It has been an enriching journey filled with growth and learning experiences.
How has EMBERS impacted your family?
I often express that my family is part of the Embers family. My husband, who arrived in British Columbia from Alberta with 20 years of carpentry experience but lacking valid BC certifications, began his journey with EMBERS in April 2020 as a general laborer. Over time, he progressed to a carpentry position and secured full-time employment at various job sites through EMBERS. Each time a project concludes, he returns to Kate, trusting her to find him his next assignment. It’s remarkable that whenever he joins a new site, it doesn’t take long before they exclusively hire EMBERS workers. In August 2023, my 18-year-old son successfully completed the Building Better Futures program and transitioned to working full-time as an EMBERS employee since his graduation in June. EMBERS has provided our family with job security and a strong sense of community. I often reassure my 14-year-old son that we are eagerly awaiting his 18th birthday as I believe he will also find his place at EMBERS in the future.
Why is social enterprise and youth training important to you / why did you choose to follow this path of training?
Social enterprise and upskilling hold significant importance for me as I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact they have on the lives of those we support. My own family have each turned to EMBERS for various reasons, coming from different backgrounds, and have found our needs met. The world is diverse, with individuals seeking out programs and opportunities that EMBERS offers for a multitude of reasons. EMBERS creates a space and provides opportunities for individuals who may struggle to secure them independently. Witnessing the success of individuals who are given a helping hand to become qualified and capable, and observing how they leverage this experience to enhance their lives, is the most fulfilling aspect of my work here. Surprisingly, I have found unexpected joy in engaging with the youth program. I frequently express that working with the youth of today instills in me a profound sense of hope, as I believe these individuals are the future. I have had the privilege of witnessing a significant percentage of our participants seize this opportunity and achieve success.