For a few months I was going to IWSO once a week to lead a French conversation class. Most women had no previous knowledge of the language so it resulted in us speaking mostly English, but I believe these women kept coming back because it was an opportunity for a social gathering and a weekly interaction with other women. I enjoyed meeting them every week and learning more about all the programs and activities offered by IWSO. I remember attending my first Annual General Meeting and being amazed at what the organization had accomplished during the year, helping women to reach their goals and achieve their full potential.

I personally got to know one of the women in my class very well. She was a young woman from Brazil and she took advantage of all the services, courses and programs offered at IWSO. She is now a graduate of Algonquin College and she recently found a job in her field. One of many such success stories.

In 2020 the pandemic happened and everyone’s lives were turned upside-down. I stopped going every week and even though IWSO kept offering as many services as possible online, I did not continue with the French classes. The pandemic must have been particularly hard for immigrant women, being even more isolated than before. The health situation is getting better and things are slowly going back to normal. I will be looking at ways to contribute again. IWSO is providing essential services to our community and I am so proud to have been part of it.