WHO ARE OUR LEARNERS

Our learners are women facing economic, social and/or academic barriers and who use the services of our partnering agencies. They are unemployed and typically range in age from 15 to 40. Our learners often rely on government services and support for basic needs. Most of our learners have children and many are single mothers.

Read what our learners have to say.

Youville learners hard at work

Immigrant Women Services Ottawa learners are new Canadian women who are survivors of violence.

Read Linda's story.

Youville learners are young mothers who attend high school at this alternative learning centre.

Tungasuvvingat Inuit learners are Inuit women living in the Ottawa area.

Cornerstone learners are women who are homeless and seeking emergency shelter and supportive, transitional housing.

Learner Spotlight

Robin (a spunky 20-year old mom to a lively 2-year old) participated in the iSisters’ program at Youville Centre in 2005. In this course, Robin learned about media literacy, the Internet, computer basics and how to create a presentation using PowerPoint. She used her skills to create a dynamic PowerPoint presentation to share her experiences from her co-op placement.

Founder and CEO Cathy Lewis and
star pupil Robin enjoying a giggle after class.

Robin overcame numerous challenges (single parenting, moving during the program and trips to the hospital with her daughter) and completed the course successfully. Imagine, with all these obstacles, Robin never missed a class, she always had a bright smile on her face, she had a terrific attitude, and she invested impressive time and energy in the program.

Watch Robin and Cathy on Rogers TV.

Robin has now finished high school and College and has her dream job working at a spa. Congratulations Robin.