Going through my memories from a year ago and this was the time I made the hardest/best decision of my life. I made the decision to quit my job, and I had no idea what I was getting myself into... Like I had so many plans and just hoping one of them would work. After all of them failed, I was so DOWN... and I refused to go back to my old job. I wanted change and I took  that risk of going out and finding it myself. In that few months of uncertainty I found MYSELF! I found a girl who was determined and wouldn’t stop for nothing to get what she wanted! I joined probably the best program Maskwacis has offered “Change it Up” and that is what I needed. The universe heard me, and the program wasn’t anything I expected. I believe that is what I needed before reaching my goal, at becoming a Health Care Aide. The program helped prepare me for my course (mentally) because I later learned everything I did in the CIU program. I guess what I’m trying to say is don’t be afraid to take risks y’all! You never know what you’re capably of! And what could happen.

    Independence, that’s what I got. I know the resources now. The motivation, the coaching, the good leadership of how to do things on our own. Every program should have this, along with a clap-out and a brilliant insight. When we started I never put myself first. I never did anything for myself. I always thought about my kids, and then my partner and then sometimes me. And loving myself, I don’t have that ‘Oh I am so mad at you, or you can’t do this,’. I don’t say that anymore. I say You can do it, and I have little things to read for motivation and my ‘Why’ is at the centre. I am reaching everything. I am so happy.

    ​It is important that the CIU program continues. It gives other individuals, like myself, the confidence to have their business ideas grow and succeed in our community. It also keeps our dollars from leaving the community and being spent off reserve. 

    ​ The Change It Up Program helped me to achieve my goals of starting my own business by providing me with a support system and tools necessary. I learned hands on how to raise start-up funds, organize and operate a group business. The program’s facilitators were very helpful and encouraging. During the program I had perfect attendance, trained and became a certified nail technician at the Eveline Charles Academy, was the vice president of our group businesses (Cree Market and Four Directions) while also establishing my own business called Omiyosiw Nails.

      Being in the CIU taught me to be more responsible, outgoing, independent, and most importantly, confident. I learned and built up more on my life and work essential skills. I’ve also learned things about myself such as being a leader and making quick decisions on the spot. I also learned how to make my own choices and not follow others on their choices that worked for them. I made choices that worked for me, that were comfortable for me. Without the program, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I became a better person, I make wiser choices. I am more knowledgeable in both life and working skills. I obtained a job that I enjoy doing. I’ve come a long way from where I was before. 

    ​Today was  so unexpected and I’m beyond GRATEFUL & THANKFUL! I can’t even find the words... I’m in such a good place mentally. I’m so glad I didn’t give up on working on myself and my goals! Hard work really does pay off. Honestly, I encourage each and everyone one of you to never stop trying at anything in life! You want something? Ask the universe, put in the work, believe in yourself and never let anything stop you! Anything is possible. With that being said I’m so glad I joined the Change it Up program,  I have no regrets coming to this program, I’m glad things worked out the way they did because now, I am enrolled in College, they gave me a little boost I needed to get my ass going lol. Today is just a GOOD Day. 

    ​The Change It Up program has had a very positive aspect on my life. It has taught me how to become a go getter and how to pursue the things I want in life. I now run 2 successful youth programs and became the President of the Maskwacis Minor Hockey Association. 

    ​Change means to make something different and in my opinion, Change It Up did just that. Change It Up was a course of self-empowerment and to those who were serious, did see personal growth and prosperity. For myself, with the help of Heather MacTaggart, Leiha Crier, Cheryl Montour, and Heather Peigan, Change It Up helped me unleash potential I didn’t know I was capable of. Change it up did transform me into someone different, to which I will always be grateful for. 

    I’m am grateful  for being part of the CIU......for reminding me an idea is ONLY an idea... until it is put into ACTION!

    Hello attached in the pdf is baby-sitting invoice for the month of April. Thank you for this last month of assistance for my sitter. I really appreciated the help I got and happy to say I'm a full time employee at Canalta hotel. Have a great day and once again I am forever grateful for the opportunity I was given to make this happen.  

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