Responding to a Changing World of Work

The world of work continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace. Economic uncertainty, changing government and funding priorities, advances in technology, including Artificial Intelligence, and shifting employer needs are transforming how people find work and build careers. In 2026, Canada’s unemployment rate remained above 6%, with rates in Toronto reaching close to 7%. Young people faced an even more difficult environment, with youth unemployment nearly twice the national rate.

At JVS Toronto, we help people respond to change by building the skills, confidence, and connections they need to move forward. Over the past year, JVS Toronto supported over 15,000 people, including newcomers, youth, people with disabilities, and experienced workers. Of those who completed our programs, 85% successfully moved into employment or training.

Throughout our annual report, you will meet individuals who faced uncertainty with determination and courage. Their stories show what is possible when people receive the right guidance, resources, and opportunities. They reflect the heart of our mission – real people transforming challenges into opportunities.

Our Success Stories

Our impact extends beyond the number of people served. It can be seen in the individual who secured a first job in Canada, the young person who returned to school, the client who gained the confidence to pursue a new career, and the employer who found the talent needed to strengthen their organization.

Here are a few of their stories.

Bridging the Gap – Nazneen’s Story

“Progress begins with showing up, resilience opens doors, and motivation gives you the courage to walk through them. Thank you to JVS Toronto for believing in possibilities and supporting my journey.”

Nazneen had a successful career in Human Resources before immigrating to Canada from India. After arriving, she stepped away from the workforce to focus on her family’s needs. When she was ready to re-enter the job market three years later, she faced several challenges.

A settlement agency referred her to JVS Toronto’s Job Search Workshop for Newcomers. The workshop helped Nazneen better understand the Canadian labour market and workplace culture. However, two significant barriers remained: a lack of Canadian work experience and a three-year gap in her employment history. Nazneen then joined Road to Employment for Immigrant Women, a program that helps newcomer women build the skills and confidence needed to secure employment.

Over four weeks, she strengthened her resume, interview and networking skills through group activities and one-on-one support. She learned how to position her international experience for Canadian employers and speak confidently about the value she could offer. With encouragement from her JVS Toronto Employment Experts, she also completed several industry-specific certifications.

Rising to the challenge

Determined to gain Canadian experience, Nazneen pursued volunteer and internship opportunities to strengthen her resume and expand her professional network. Before long, her hard work paid off, and she secured a contract position as an Administrative Assistant. Just three months later, she was promoted to a full-time Program Coordinator role.

Building a Dream – Artem’s Story

“JVS Toronto helped me develop a structured, clear plan and an executable strategy for my dream.”

Artem was searching for work in the highly competitive digital marketing industry. Despite applying for numerous positions, he struggled to find an opportunity. Faced with a crowded job market and growing financial pressure, he felt trapped in a cycle of applications and rejections.

Artem dreamed of launching his own business – a creative studio producing high-quality video and photography to help businesses strengthen their social media, online presence, and marketing – but needed the business knowledge to bring it to life. His JVS Toronto Employment Expert introduced him to the Youth Entrepreneurship Program (YEP), an intensive six-month program that helps young people turn promising business ideas into reality.

With one-on-one guidance from professional mentors, he developed a business plan and built practical skills in finance, marketing, and business management. More importantly, Artem gained the confidence to see entrepreneurship as a realistic path forward.

A Picture of Success

With the financial support from YEP, made possible through the generosity of the Freedman Family, he invested in professional equipment and expanded his online presence to reach prospective clients. Since completing the program, Artem has transformed his business, Project Renard, from an idea into a thriving business. He has produced content for real estate agents, hair salons, retailers, and professional events, with even more projects on the horizon.

Turning Potential into Opportunity – Archie’s Story

“I was so proud after I got the job. JVS Toronto told me I could do it. Without their support, I wouldn’t have entered the building that day to greet the employer with a smile.”

Archie wanted the opportunity to work, contribute, and build a more independent future. But limited paid work experience, along with challenges related to ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and mental health, made the path to employment feel uncertain.

Then Archie joined a pre-employment program in JVS Toronto’s Disability and Inclusion Division, which helps adults with disabilities develop essential work and life skills, gain independence, and participate more fully in their communities. Through workshops on communication, workplace culture and professional expectations, Archie began to recognize his strengths and developed the confidence to show that he was ready to work.

When JVS Toronto connected Archie with an employment opportunity, he was nervous about the interview. His employment expert reminded him how far he had come and assured him that he had the skills to succeed. Archie made an excellent first impression and was offered a full-time position.

Turning Opportunity Into Lasting Success

Starting full-time work was an exciting milestone. To help Archie succeed, JVS Toronto collaborated with his employer on accommodations that allowed him to increase his hours gradually. His employment expert also provided on-the-job coaching. Archie quickly proved himself to be a dedicated and capable employee. Today, he continues to thrive in his role and is excited about his future with the company.

Paying It Forward – Andrea’s Story

“JVS Toronto embodies something that is very Canadian – the idea of paying it forward, where those who were helped go on to help others. It builds stronger communities and a more resilient workforce.”

Andrea had built a successful career in architecture before immigrating to Canada from Venezuela. She was eager to continue working in her field but like many internationally trained professionals she was unsure how to position her credentials and experience within the Canadian job market.

In 2019, Andrea joined JVS Toronto’s Immigrant Professionals Leveraging Architectural Knowledge for New Opportunities (IPLAN). With the knowledge she gained through the program, Andrea secured a specialist position with construction firm Bothwell-Accurate. She was soon promoted to Director of Drafting & BIM Technology, overseeing operations across Ontario and British Columbia. With the company’s confidence and support, she soon began building Bothwell-Accurate’s Drafting and BIM team.

Opening Doors for Others

As her career grew, Andrea wanted to help other newcomers overcome the same barriers she had faced. She reconnected with JVS Toronto, this time as an employer, seeking qualified, internationally trained professionals for Bothwell-Accurate’s offices. To date, Andrea has hired nine IPLAN graduates, providing each of them with the opportunity, training and mentorship needed to build a successful career in Canada.