This blog post was provided by Windmill Microlending for Global Gathering Place
When Eric moved to Canada from the Philippines, he wanted to continue working as a registered nurse. Unfortunately, his foreign credentials weren’t fully recognized, and Eric ended up working as a special care aid in Saskatoon.
Working three low-paying jobs didn’t provide the time or funds for Eric to upgrade his professional skills. He was unable to save enough money to pay for his education and was frustrated.
Luckily, Eric learned about Windmill Microlending and got a loan to help cover the cost of courses, travel and accommodations while earning his registered nurse (RN) designation – a lengthy and expensive process.
With Windmill’s support, Eric was able to take an English proficiency test not available in Saskatchewan at the time. He travelled to Calgary, staying a month at his own expense. Then, Eric moved to Regina to complete a clinical practicum at a hospital. Finally, he took an upgrading course at Saskatchewan Polytechnic.
With Windmill’s help, Eric received his RN designation and is now working in a hospital in Saskatoon.
“It would have been possible to accomplish this without the help of Windmill Microlending, but their support made things quicker, easier, convenient, practical and sustainable,” Eric says.
Eric’s success story is one of more than 6,500 skilled immigrants and refugees who have received a low-interest, affordable loan from Windmill. This non-profit organization offers up to $15,000 to pay for the credentials, licensing, retraining or professional development needed to achieve career success in Canada.
A Windmill loan may be used for:
- Education and training programs of two years or less, including courses to help you advance your career.
- Fees for licensing and qualifying exams.
- Living allowance to support you during your training, licensing, or relocation.
- Credentials assessments, like the ones from WES, ICAS, IQAS, or MIFI.
- English or French language training.
- Relocation costs for employment.
- Travel expenses to take courses or exams not available in your area.
- Books, course materials and work equipment.
- Professional association fees.
- Other related expenses.
To be eligible, an applicant must:
- Be an Immigrant: Permanent Resident, Provincial Nominee, Refugee/Protected Person or Canadian Citizen.
- Be living in Canada.
- Not have an undischarged bankruptcy.
Windmill believes a loan alone is not enough to help skilled immigrants achieve career success, which is why they provide additional supports designed to give them the boost they need to succeed, including financial literacy training, access to a Mentorship Program, online digital resources and coaching.
If you have questions, call the Windmill team at 1-855-423-2262 or email info@teamwindmill.org.
Don’t know if a Windmill loan is right for you? Take their two-minute eligibility quiz here to find out.
Read more Windmill clients’ success stories here.
